DOTr orders probe, fast-tracking of damaged PNR bridge in Albay

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has directed the Philippine National Railways (PNR) to conduct an immediate assessment of a bridge that was seen swaying in the wind at the height of Super Typhoon Uwan in Albay.

The bridge, which connects the barangays of San Rafael and Maipon in Guinobatan, sustained structural damage during the typhoon’s onslaught on 9 November.

In a statement posted on the DOTr’s official Facebook page, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has instructed the agency to fast-track the repair of the damaged bridge while ensuring the safety of passengers and railway personnel.

Lopez said PNR engineers are already on standby and ready to carry out the assessment once weather and safety conditions permit.

Due to the damage, operations for the Naga–Legazpi route have been temporarily suspended pending the completion of inspection and repair works. The said route serves around 400 passengers daily.

To assist affected commuters, Lopez said he will direct the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to deploy additional public utility vehicles (PUVs) in the area.

The PNR will also inspect and assess the entire Bicol commuter train route to ensure no other rail structures were compromised by the typhoon.

Both the DOTr and PNR vowed to provide regular updates once the assessment has been completed.