Temporary Bridge Washed Away by Floodwaters in Maguindanao del Norte; Residents Urge Completion of Unfinished Permanent Structure

A temporary bridge across the Tuka River in Barangay Tapian, Datu Odin Sinsuat town, Maguindanao del Norte was destroyed by strong floodwaters on Friday, July 10. The temporary crossing served as a vital route connecting Sitio Tuka and Sitio Proper, facilitating travel for residents and motorists heading towards West Upi. According to Al-hassim Eskak, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairman of Tapian, heavy rains had affected the area since the previous day, causing the river to swell and floodwaters to rush through the temporary structure. Photos shared by Eskak show the temporary bridge, which had been used by vehicles, motorcycles, and residents, being washed away by the strong current. The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Datu Odin Sinsuat stated that the area has been temporarily closed to traffic for the safety of residents. The original bridge in the area was damaged in 2022 during the onslaught of Typhoon Paeng, and the temporary crossing was set up as a replacement. Eskak noted that a permanent bridge project had already commenced, with bridge posts erected. However, nearly four years later, the project remains unfinished. Only the bridge posts and the now-destroyed temporary crossing are visible in the area. Residents and barangay officials have expressed that the unfinished structure has become an added burden rather than a help to the community. They are now calling on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Ministry of Public Works of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to expedite the completion of the bridge once weather conditions improve.