Cebu City faces a potential transportation crisis as the Bacayan-Talamban bridge shows signs of structural weakness following Typhoon Tino's impact last week. Mayor Nestor Archival has urgently sought assistance from the Philippine Army and Department of Public Works and Highways to prevent a complete bridge collapse.
Immediate Threat to Waste Management
During a press conference on Monday, November 10, 2025, Mayor Archival revealed the critical situation. The bridge serves as the primary route for garbage trucks transporting approximately 600 metric tons of waste daily to the Barangay Binaliw landfill. The mayor emphasized that any disruption to this route could paralyze the city's daily garbage collection operations.
Archival detailed visible damage to the bridge structure, noting noticeable movement whenever vehicles pass over it. "We're concerned that if this issue isn't addressed immediately, the city might lose its ability to transport waste to the Binaliw landfill," the mayor stated during the press conference.
Emergency Measures Implemented
The city government has formally requested assistance from the Army's engineering battalion to clear vegetation obstructing the river flow beneath the bridge. Additionally, Mayor Archival has urged the DPWH to install temporary structural supports, known as "shoe rings," to reinforce the bridge while awaiting comprehensive rehabilitation plans.
The Cebu City Transportation Office has already deployed personnel to manage traffic in the area and ensure no heavy vehicles remain parked on the bridge structure. These immediate measures aim to reduce stress on the compromised infrastructure while permanent solutions are developed.
Broader Community Impact
The potential bridge collapse extends beyond waste management concerns. Archival warned that residents of northern barangays relying on this bridge for access to hospitals, schools, and subdivisions would face severe transportation challenges. The bridge serves as a vital connection point for multiple communities in the mountainous regions.
The mayor specifically called on the DPWH to prioritize this critical mountain connection to prevent community isolation and disruption of essential services. He noted that other bridges in Buot Taop and Lusaran still lack clear rehabilitation schedules, compounding the region's infrastructure challenges.
