Manila Mayor Francisco Moreno Domagoso issued on Monday a cease and desist order against the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) after the latter announced the closure of Dimasalang Bridge’s southbound lane without securing permission from the local government.
In his verbal directive to the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) and the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB), he instructed the confiscation of equipment and impounding of vehicles should the project still proceed.
Aside from the incomplete work clearances and permits, he stressed that the DPWH does not have a finalized traffic management plan for the bridge rehabilitation, which is set to last until December 15, 2025.
For its part, the DPWH, through its North Manila District Engineering Office, announced that starting August 9, it plans to begin full-deck replacement and structural improvements on the bridge.
It also intends to close the southbound lanes while temporarily converting the northbound lanes into a two-way route.
Since returning to office, the mayor has reminded both public and private sectors to inform the city government of any construction projects. “Of course, we welcome your projects, but the manner in which they are delivered can be improved,” Domagoso said.
