The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has formally demanded that the bus company responsible for the fire on the EDSA-Ortigas Interchange last week pay for all repair and rehabilitation costs of the damaged flyover.
Demand for Payment
In a letter addressed to LS8 Tourist Transport Corporation, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon ordered the company to shoulder the expenses for the repair, rehabilitation, and other related costs incurred due to the incident. The fire, which occurred on April 24, lasted approximately one hour and caused significant damage to critical structural components of the bridges.
Structural Damage
According to the DPWH, the fire particularly affected the soffit of the box girder leading to Greenhills in San Juan. Initial assessments and inspections revealed discoloration deposits underneath the structure, indicating high-temperature exposure. In localized areas, reinforcing steel bars were exposed, compromising the structural integrity of the interchange.
The department emphasized that the corporation is liable for the damages under applicable laws, including provisions of the Civil Code on quasi-delict. These provisions hold employers and agents accountable for damages caused while acting within the scope of their assigned tasks.
The DPWH is now moving forward with the necessary repairs to ensure the safety and functionality of the flyover, with the costs to be recovered from the bus company.
