Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 11) — Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro has called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to immediately repair the cracks in the Marikina Bridge reportedly caused by the flood interceptor project of the agency.
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“The several meter long crack appearing on the side of the bridge is a serious safety issue that may risk public safety and convenience affecting the welfare of the community,” read Teodoro’s letter to the DPWH.
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It adds that the DPWH may face cases should there be no concrete and immediate action.
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In an interview with CNN Philippines’ Balitaan on Wednesday, Teodoro said the DPWH should release the geotechnical survey report so that the government will know the cause of the crack, the condition of the bridge, and the needed repair works.
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“Ngayon, dine-demand namin na maisagawa na agad ‘yung retaining wall na bumagsak doon sa foundation ng tulay para hindi na ito patuloy humupa,” Teodoro said.
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[Translation: Right now, we are demanding that the DPWH repair the fallen retaining wall so that the foundation of the bridge will not totally collapse.]
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The crack found last Jan. 6 was reportedly caused by digging for the deep foundation of the Sumulong Flood Interceptor project of the DPWH.
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Teodoro said temporary measures such as shoring or putting a pile drive and a sand filling will help prevent further erosion.
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He added that the local government is waiting for the final recommendation and the schedule of rectification since DPWH has already checked the integrity of the bridge.
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On Jan. 7, the Marikina government ordered the indefinite postponement of the flood interceptor project.
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Although some parts of the bridge are open, heavy cargo trucks are redirected to pass through Fernando Avenue or Tumana Bridge.
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