Cabagan–Santa Maria Bridge reopens to light vehicles

Speaker Bodjie Dy assured that Congress will work hand in hand with the Department of Public Works and Highways in allocating the necessary budget to complete the permanent structure of the Cabagan–Santa Maria Bridge.

Residents and motorists in Isabela no longer need to cross the Cagayan River by boat after the DPWH reopened the bridge to light vehicles.

The bridge partially collapsed in February 2025, prompting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to direct the immediate rehabilitation of the structure to ease the burden on communities in Cabagan and Santa Maria.

Less than two months after construction began on a temporary steel bridge connector at the collapsed section, the structure is now passable for light vehicles.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said the agency acted swiftly following the President’s instructions to provide an immediate solution while permanent repairs continue.

“We were ordered by President Marcos to come here and find a temporary solution because we saw the hardship our fellow Filipinos were going through. It has been more or less one year since the collapse. Now, this can finally be used,” Dizon said.

The DPWH is accelerating work on the permanent portion of the bridge to accommodate heavy trucks and fully restore logistical flow in the area.

Strict traffic management measures and load limits remain in place to ensure public safety. Foreign consultants are also studying the most effective long-term rehabilitation strategy for the entire structure.

Officials said the reopening is expected to ease transportation challenges and help revive economic activity between Cabagan and Santa Maria.