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| The DPWH Samar First DEO has finished the construction of two bridges that will link Barangay Rawis to Barangay San Policarpo through Barangay Aguit-itan. Photo: DPWH-8/Facebook |
TACLOBAN CITY – The Samar First District Engineering Office (DEO) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has finally completed the construction of two bridges that will be part of a special bridge that will connect Barangay Rawis to Barangay San Policarpo via Barangay Aguit-itan.
The two bridges, worth Php 136.04 million, were funded by the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for fiscal years 2019 and 2020. The first bridge is 20 meters long and 24.4 meters wide (four lanes), while the second bridge is 40 meters long and 24.4 meters wide (four lanes). Both are reinforced concrete bridges with Reinforced Concrete Design Girders.
The bridges' construction faced several challenges, including finding a temporary dock for the motored bangkeros that ferry passengers to nearby islands and obtaining an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) due to the mangroves along the route.
To resolve these issues and meet all requirements, the DPWH Samar First DEO had to work with the Local Government Unit (LGU), the Philippine Port Authority, and other offices.
Completing the first two bridges will pave the way for constructing the third bridge, which will link the three barangays. This will improve residents' accessibility and mobility, particularly for farmers and fishermen, who will be able to transport their goods and services to markets and trading centers. This will also help the area's socioeconomic development and tourism potential. —iTacloban