Cabu parallel bridge nears completion

Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija — The historical Cabu Bridge here will remain in its condition as the construction of its parallel bridge nears completion.

According to Public Works and Highways Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineer Elpidio Trinidad, the 50.7-meter parallel bridge will reroute traffic from the aging Cabu Bridge along the Nueva Ecija-Aurora Road that connects the cities of Cabanatuan and Palayan.

He added that the parallel bridge has an initial allocation of  P92.6 million in the 2023 national budget, citing that the first phase of the bridge project is nearing completion.

The official said that the first phase of the bridge project includes the construction of concrete supports and the installation of steel girders to provide the necessary structural reinforcement for the bridge's concrete slab.

"Construction is currently in full swing as we need to expedite the building of this parallel bridge. We frequently encounter accessibility issues due to the Cabu Bridge's incapacity to accommodate heavy vehicles, leading to longer routes for trucks heading to Dingalan and the eastern towns of Nueva Ecija," Trinidad said.

Due to its historical significance, the Cabu Bridge cannot be torn down or replaced and the construction of the bridge adjacent to the old structure is necessary.

Assistant District Engineer Robert Jay Panaligan noted that the project's completion, including the construction of bridge approaches, has been integrated into the DEO's 2024 Annual Infrastructure Program, which has been allocated a budget of P29 million.

"We are aware that heritage preservation advocates are opposing the replacement of the Cabu Bridge. It holds historical significance as a landmark associated with the Great Raid, a mission aimed at liberating American and Filipino prisoners of war and civilians from a Japanese camp in Cabanatuan City," Panaligan said.

Upon completion, heavy vehicles will no longer need to take detours through General Natividad or the Sta. Rosa-Dingalan Road when traveling to Palayan City and its neighboring municipalities, ensuring more convenient travel for both motorists and heavy trucks.

"This parallel bridge will serve heavy trucks, while the old bridge will be designated for light vehicles. It has the potential to reduce both time and costs associated with inter-town travel, promoting economic and tourism activities in the province. This approach balances the preservation of our cultural heritage with the advancement of modern infrastructure," Panaligan said.

The DPWH is confident that the project's successful completion by the first quarter of 2025 will simplify access to the provincial capital and other destinations, facilitating the growth of the tourism sector and generating revenue for local businesses.