CAPIZ – The Roxas City Government is set to restore the historic Capiz Bridge, also known as the Roxas City Bridge, and has imposed a ban on the passage of heavy vehicles in preparation for its rehabilitation.
A meeting involving cultural, engineering, architectural, and historical groups was recently convened to assess the condition of the bridge. According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)–Capiz 1st Engineering District, the bridge, constructed in 1909, is now more than 100 years old and has never undergone major rehabilitation. Based on inspections, it may no longer be capable of supporting heavy loads.
Mayor Ronnie Dadivas emphasized the importance of expert recommendations to ensure public safety while preserving the historical and architectural integrity of the structure.
He added that the city government is committed to restoring the bridge in a way that honors its heritage while ensuring it remains safe for public use.
As part of the preliminary safety measures, the city government has issued Executive Order (EO) No. 5, which prohibits the crossing of heavy vehicles with six wheels or more on the bridge. The order cites inspection results indicating that the bridge can no longer sustain heavy traffic and is at risk of structural failure if overloaded.
The EO underscores the need to preserve the bridge’s structural identity, ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians, and prevent any imminent danger that may arise from overloading the weakened structure.
To implement the restrictions, the Roxas City Traffic Management Unit, Roxas City police, and tanods from barangays I, III, VI, VII, and IX have been directed to monitor and control the flow of vehicles in the affected areas.
The bridge restoration is part of the city’s broader efforts to protect historical landmarks while prioritizing public safety and urban development./PN
