13 barges hit F. Manalo Bridge in Pasig during Typhoon Carina

At least 13 barges and boats drifted due to strong currents in Marikina River, hitting the F. Manalo Bridge in Pasig City amid Super Typhoon Carina on Wednesday afternoon, July 24.

The collision temporarily closed both lanes of the bridge, connecting Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Avenue in Pasig and Calle Industria in Quezon City, causing critical cracks and toppling some posts.

Marikina River reached a water level of 20.7 meters by 4:40 pm, prompting local governments to evacuate residents from low-lying areas; 20 people were rescued during the incident.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan informed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. that the F. Manalo Bridge is scheduled for rehabilitation due to its low freeboard, which makes it unsuitable for barges to pass through.

According to DPWH engineer Grece Christopher Damo, a salvage team will soon be deployed by the contractor of barge No. 20 to remove it from the waters near the bridge and prevent further damage.

The DPWH said that while the bridge's structural integrity is being assessed, efforts are underway to save the F. Manalo Bridge so that motorists can pass through it again as soon as possible.