The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is “steadfast in its commitment to maintaining the integrity and enhancing the appeal of the Panguil Bay Bridge in Northern Mindanao.”
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain made this statement as he led an inspection of the rectification activities for the bridge’s asphalt layer and thermoplastic pavement markings, underscoring the agency’s dedication to safety and quality standards.
In a report to DPWG chief Manuel Bonoan, Sadain confirmed that the contractor, Namkwang-Kukdong-Gumgwang Joint Venture (NKG JV), has completed the emergency replacement of damaged asphalt pavement at no additional cost to the government.
With Sadain during the inspection were Unified Project Management Office (UPMO) project directors Teresita Bauzon, Soledad Florencio, and Benjamin Bautista; Misamis Occidental 2nd District engineer Carol Lyn Abinales; and Lanao del Norte 1st District engineer Aly Khan Ali.
To prevent future issues like asphalt pavement deformation and potholes, the DPWH has intensified its anti-overloading operations.
Portable weighing stations, now operating 24/7 at both ends of the bridge in Tangub City and Tubod, are managed by the Misamis Occidental 2nd and Lanao del Norte 1st District Engineering Offices. These efforts aim to protect the longevity of the bridge and ensure its structural integrity.
The DPWH has also required the contractor to submit comprehensive asphalt pavement upgrading plan including a revised asphalt mix design and waterproofing measures for the full replacement and upgrading of the asphalt layer scheduled for early 2025.
