Sen. Pimentel, Makabayan bloc seek probe into bridge collapses

Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III filed Senate Resolution 1319, calling for a Senate investigation into the alarming frequency of bridge collapses nationwide to determine accountability and assess the adequacy of current infrastructure policies.

The Makabayan bloc has filed House Resolution 2249 seeking a congressional investigation into the collapse of the Sta. Maria-Cabagan Bridge in Isabela, suspecting corruption, use of substandard materials, and negligence.

The P1.22 billion bridge, which began construction in November 2024 and was opened last month, collapsed on February 27, 2025, after a dump truck carrying approximately 102 tons of quarried stones attempted to cross it.

At least six individuals were injured in the incident, and questions have been raised about the bridge's design, approval, materials, construction integrity, and oversight by the DPWH and other agencies.

Lawmakers urged that the investigation go beyond individual accountability and scrutinize the entire procurement and construction process, including the contractor RD. Interior, Jr., the project engineers, and DPWH officials who approved and supervised the project.

The Senate Committee on Public Works has directed the DPWH to submit a report, and the DPWH has launched its own investigation into the incident.