CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PNA) - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Tuesday opened the P61-million worth Natulongan Bridge linking barangays Magsaysay and Talahiron in the municipality of Kibawe, Bukidnon province.
In a statement, Public Works Secretary Mark Villar said the project, situated in Sitio Kikipot, has a total length of 134.8 meters funded in three contract phases implemented by DPWH-Bukidnon 2nd District Engineering Office.
Kibawe Mayor Reynaldo Rabanes, in an interview, said that the new bridge would make the life of residents easier as this would introduce a boost in socio-economic activities.
“For many years, residents of Barangays Talahiron and Natulongan need to go across a four-kilometer road or cross the Pulangi River using a "gaket" or wooden raft to reach neighboring towns and villages to access basic services," he said.
With the completion of the Natulongan Bridge, Rabanes said it is now "safe, convenient, and easier" for people to connect between the two villages and link to other trading centers in town.
“This Natulongan Bridge is a key driver to increase the productivity of our small-scale farmers. This would also spark business and tourism in the province,” said 3rd District Rep. Manuel Zubiri said during the turnover ceremony.