Danao City Bridge Rehabilitation to Proceed After Budget Reprogramming Approval
The long-awaited repairs for two critical bridges in Danao City are finally moving forward after the Office of the President and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) agreed to reprogram the 2026 budget. This development comes in response to a formal complaint lodged by Danao City Mayor Ramon “Nito” Durano III with Malacañang, highlighting what he described as misplaced priorities by the agency.
Mayor's Complaint Spurs Immediate Action
In his complaint, Mayor Durano argued that the DPWH had incorrectly prioritized road repairs over the urgent need to fix the bridges, which were severely damaged by Typhoon Tino. He emphasized that the city's roads remain in good condition and do not require immediate attention, whereas the two bridges—Guinacot-Quisol Bridge and Danao Bridge 1—are essential for daily operations and public safety.
The mayor's letter to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was promptly referred to DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, ensuring swift action. This move underscores the administration's responsiveness to local government concerns and its commitment to addressing infrastructure gaps that impact communities.
Economic and Social Impacts of Bridge Damage
The destruction of these bridges has had significant repercussions on transportation and the local economy in Danao City. Key areas affected include:
- Emergency response delays, particularly from mountainous regions.
- Difficulties in transporting patients to healthcare facilities.
- Disruptions to commercial activities and daily commutes.
Mayor Durano stressed that the bridges' condition poses a direct threat to public welfare, making their rehabilitation a top priority. The upcoming repairs are expected to alleviate these challenges and restore normalcy to the city's infrastructure network.
Next Steps and Community Expectations
With the budget now reprogrammed, the rehabilitation projects for both bridges are slated to begin shortly. This initiative reflects a collaborative effort between national and local governments to address pressing infrastructure needs. Residents and stakeholders in Danao City are hopeful that the repairs will be completed efficiently, enhancing connectivity and supporting economic recovery in the aftermath of natural disasters.
The approval process highlights the importance of effective communication between municipal leaders and national agencies in prioritizing projects that serve the public interest. As work commences, ongoing monitoring will be crucial to ensure timely completion and minimal disruption to the community.
