Pasig Bridge closed for inspection

MANILA, Philippines — The bridge in Pasig City that was damaged after multiple barges slammed into it has been closed pending the structural inspection as to its integrity.

Authorities are assessing the F. Manalo Bridge after its girder or support was reportedly weakened when barges and boats dragged by the strong current caused by the typhoon-enhanced heavy rains collided at the bridge. Critical cracks were also spotted where posts had toppled. In a television interview, Grecile Christopher Damo, project manager of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Unified Project Management Office - Flood Control Management Cluster, said that her office requested for "ample time to investigate the integrity of the structure" to decide on whether "we can still retrofit or totally condemn" it. Damo said the incident was "purely an accident" although it was under investigation. She said that the barges were tied based on standard operating procedure (SOP). The bridge was rendered impassable and has been temporarily closed until further notice.