The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Philippines has announced the completion of bridge replacement works in San Emilio, Ilocos Sur.

As part of its efforts to augment the structural integrity of bridges, DPWH replaced two temporary bridges with permanent bridges at Baang Bridge in Barangay Cabaroan and Tiagan Bridge in the Barangay Tiagan region.

DPWH Secretary Mark A Villar said: “The replacement of Baang and Tiagan Bridge from the temporary bailey to permanent concrete ensures the safety and improve mobility of not just residents but also agricultural products to the upland municipalities.

“With these permanent and sturdier bridges, we can expect faster delivery of goods and services that will help boost the economy as well as provide more livelihood opportunities for the locals in the area.

“Aside from their economic benefits, these bridges will also improve tourism in the province as it serves as a safer and faster access road leading to Skyline View Deck and Kakantuban Rock Formation in Quirino, Ilocos Sur.”

The 30-lineal-metre-long Baang Bridge was completed with a total investment of PHP27.3m ($567,805) while the 20-lineal-metre-long Tiagan Bridge was completed at a cost of PHP18m ($374,377).

DPWH said that the two bridges were completed under the General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Last August, DPWH announced the opening of the reconstructed Sevilla Bridge crossing the San Juan River.

Featuring four lanes, the Sevilla Bridge connects Shaw Boulevard in Burol, Mandaluyong City, and P Sanchez Street in Sta Mesa, Manila.

The bridge reconstruction works included a 56.76-linear-metres single span with a total width of 19.40m. It features a 7.65m carriageway, a 1.5m sidewalk, and a 1.1m centre island.