Neglect of Waras Bridge nearly led to disaster

By Manuel T. Ugalde

A tragedy was narrowly averted on October 22, when Typhoon Kristine caused the premature collapse of the historically significant Waras Bridge in Camarines Sur. The bridge, built during the Spanish era, collapsed under heavy flooding, sparing the lives of commuters who frequently use the route along the Manila-Bicol-Visayas-Mindanao highway.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) had been aware of the bridge’s compromised condition since Typhoon Usman in 2018, which prompted a two-month closure and subsequent repair.

Then-Camarines Sur 1st District Engineer Nestor Gorimbao had recommended the bridge’s replacement by 2022 and strict maintenance scrutiny in the interim. However, despite the clear warnings, funding for its replacement was neglected over the past four years.

The Waras Bridge was set for reconstruction beginning October 23, 2024, with a budget of ₱39 million. This included plans to expand it from two lanes to four. Stockpiled materials at the site suggest preliminary work by the awarded contractor had already commenced before Typhoon Kristine struck.

Netizens criticized the DPWH for allowing the damaged bridge to remain open to traffic. Concerns were raised about the potential catastrophe if the bridge had collapsed under the weight of a passenger-filled bus.

Carmelo Rima of Albay expressed outrage, calling it a case of criminal neglect by the DPWH. Similarly, Ako Bicol Party-list Congressman Zaldy Co lamented the delay in funding the bridge replacement, though he noted that Typhoon Kristine inadvertently saved lives by causing the collapse before such a disaster could occur.

Historical Significance, Structural Integrity

The Waras Bridge, declared a historical site by the National Historical Commission (NHC), had withstood decades of use and natural calamities. However, it lacked steel reinforcement, a design feature common in arch bridges of its era. DPWH Regional Director Virgilio Eduarte acknowledged this, citing similar bridges in Europe that have stood the test of time.

Eduarte confirmed that the bridge’s structural integrity was under scrutiny, and investigations are ongoing to determine if neglect played a role in the delay of its replacement. However, attempts to contact Camarines Sur 5th District Engineering officials for comment were unsuccessful.

Broader Implications

The Waras Bridge collapse highlights systemic issues in the allocation of funds for infrastructure projects. Critics have pointed out that projects supported by legislative “fund insertions” often receive priority over essential maintenance and repairs.

The NHC requires proof of significant damage before granting permission for the repair or replacement of historical structures. This policy has delayed similar projects, such as the proposed replacement of the Banao Bridge in Albay, which was instead expanded due to heavy traffic.

For the Waras Bridge, certified as damaged in 2018, these delays proved costly, leaving a vital route unpassable for five days and raising questions about the effectiveness of DPWH oversight.