The repair of 13 bridges damaged by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck northern Cebu in September 2025 has officially begun, according to the Cebu Provincial Government. The earthquake caused significant damage across the province, and the delayed start of repairs has raised questions among residents.
Why the Delay?
Provincial Engineering Office Head Hector Jamora explained that the delay was necessary to allow the ground to fully stabilize after the earthquake. He emphasized that rushing the repairs could have wasted the substantial funds allocated for the project, especially since numerous aftershocks occurred, including a magnitude 5.4 quake that hit Bogo City in April 2026. If repairs had been rushed, the funds might have been wasted on structures that could have been damaged again.
Repair Timeline and Contractors
The province has hired three contractors—WTG, Lcting Construction, and Jfap—to expedite the work. According to Jamora, the contracts stipulate that the repairs will be completed within six months. The repair of these bridges is part of a three-year recovery plan by the Cebu Provincial Government, addressing the total physical damage estimated at 9.24 billion pesos.
Build Back Better and Smarter
Governor Pamela Baricuatro has emphasized that the repairs should not be mere restoration but an opportunity to improve infrastructure. Her strategy, "Build Back Better and Smarter," aims to make the bridges more resilient and beneficial to the public. Additional bridges will be repaired in the future as part of this plan.
The province prioritizes bridge repair because these structures are vital for trade and commerce. Products are transported across these bridges to various destinations. Currently, vehicles must take longer and more winding detours, increasing fuel costs for businesses, which are often passed on to consumers as higher prices. This also results in wasted time for commuters and traders.
Residents and businesses affected by the bridge closures are urged to be patient, as the repairs have finally begun. Once completed, the new bridges will provide safer and more efficient travel, easing the burden on the local economy and daily life.
