Pimentel files Senate res for bridge collapse inquiry

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino 'Koko' Pimentel filed Senate Resolution No. 1319 on March 3 to call for an inquiry into recurring bridge collapses in the Philippines.

The resolution aims to hold accountable public officials and contractors responsible for incidents such as the collapse of the newly-built Cabagan-Santa Maria Bridge in Isabela last week, injuring six individuals.

Senator Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr., chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Works, directed the Department of Public Works and Highways to submit a report on the collapsed bridge.

Revilla's committee is ready to conduct a hearing on Pimentel's resolution if it is referred to them, emphasizing that accountability must be sought from all involved parties.

The investigation aims to assess the adequacy of current infrastructure policies and ensure compliance with engineering standards and maintenance protocols.

Similar incidents raise serious concerns over deficiencies in engineering and design, use of substandard materials, lack of proper oversight, and possible corruption in infrastructure projects.