DPWH forms probe panel for Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge collapse

Malacañang announced on Wednesday that a special committee was formed to investigate the collapse of the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge in Isabela.

DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, through Special Order No. 35 issued on Mar. 17, appointed Undersecretary Anne Sharlyne Lapuz as chairperson and Undersecretary Eric Ayapana as co-chairperson for a five-member probe panel tasked to submit findings by April 25.

The bridge collapsed on February 27 after a dump truck loaded with boulders crossed it, injuring six people and highlighting the weight limit restriction of 44 tons compared to the truck's weight of 100 tons.

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. visited the site a week after the incident, stating that there was a design problem with the bridge.

The committee will conduct thorough assessments including site inspections and interviews with personnel involved in the project, aiming to determine if the bridge met required standards and recommend corrective measures based on findings.