Danao City Gains Presidential Support for Critical Bridge Rehabilitation
In the wake of the devastating impact of Typhoon Tino, Danao City has received a significant boost from the national government. The Office of the President has formally expressed its support for the reprogramming of the Department of Public Works and Highways' (DPWH) 2026 budget to prioritize the repair and reconstruction of damaged bridges in the city.
Urgent Request for Budget Realignment
Mayor Ramon "Nito" Durano revealed that the City Government's request to realign funds from other programmed road and administrative projects has been referred to the DPWH by the Office of the President. The targeted projects include the repair of the Guinacot–Quisol Bridge and the complete reconstruction of Danao Bridge 1 located in Barangay Taboc.
"The support from the Office of the President in reprogramming the 2026 DPWH budget for Danao is a major help to address the priority call of Danao City after the damage caused by Typhoon Tino," Durano stated emphatically. He further emphasized the critical nature of these structures, adding, "The Guinacot–Quisol Bridge and Danao Bridge 1 in Taboc are not just projects—they are lifelines for our communities."
Formal Documentation and Immediate Actions
The presidential support was formally outlined in a letter dated January 7, which Mayor Durano welcomed as a crucial step toward addressing the city's urgent infrastructure needs. This was followed by a memorandum from the DPWH Regional Office VII dated January 12, directing concerned offices to account for Danao City's pressing infrastructure concerns in their planning and execution.
Durano highlighted that the damage to these bridges has severely disrupted multiple essential functions:
- Transportation networks for residents and goods
- Emergency response capabilities during crises
- Access to educational institutions for students
- The local economy through hindered commerce
He stressed that the issue extends beyond mere infrastructure, significantly impacting public safety, livelihoods, and access to basic services that residents depend on daily.
Progress Already Underway
In a positive development, repair works on Danao Bridge 1 in Barangay Taboc have already commenced under DPWH 7's existing program and budget allocation following the typhoon. Local officials continue to coordinate closely with national government agencies to ensure that damaged infrastructure is restored as quickly as possible for the benefit of all residents.
The City Government expects the DPWH to act promptly on plans and assessments, prioritizing all reported damaged bridges. This includes the affected section of the Langub–Quisol Bridge, which remains part of the comprehensive rehabilitation effort. The collaborative approach between local and national authorities demonstrates a committed response to post-disaster recovery in the region.
