The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will deploy a salvage team to eliminate a barge that slammed into the F. Manalo Bridge in Pasig City during the onslaught of Typhoon “Carina”.
DPWH engineer Grece Christopher Damo said in a television interview that the strong current from the Marikina River dislodged barge No. 20, leading it to collide with another barge prior to hitting the bridge last Wednesday afternoon.
“There was a chain reaction of collisions where one barge hit another, triggering the movement," Damo said.
The collision caused damage to the already deteriorating bridge.
“This could potentially cause significant damage to the bridge. As the barge shifts, it could collide again with other barges or submerged vessels nearby," he said.
Damo added that the DPWH aims to restore traffic on the bridge as soon as possible.
“We need it to become passable as soon as possible, the approach is crucial and must be secured),” Damo said.
Several workers were aboard the barge when it was swept away but were later rescued.