EDDUBA
BAGUIO CITY – Kalinga Gov. James Edduba on Thursday welcomed the reopening of the Aliog Bridge to two-way traffic, saying it will improve mobility for residents, farmers, and businesses in the province.
"This is our gateway. It connects us to other provinces," Edduba said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.
Located in Barangay Aliog, Tabuk City, the bridge serves as Kalinga's main road link to neighboring Isabela province and the rest of Luzon, including Metro Manila.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) opened the bridge to two-way traffic on July 7 after months of one-way operations while rehabilitation work was underway.
During an inspection in late May, Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon directed the DPWH-Cordillera to expedite work on the bridge to ease travel, particularly with the onset of the rainy season.
Edduba said the bridge is a vital transport route used daily by private motorists, public utility vehicles, and cargo trucks, including those transporting agricultural products.
"Our farmers also use it," he said.
The governor thanked Dizon for ordering the immediate completion of the project.
He noted that while minor works are still ongoing, the bridge is already fully serving its intended purpose. (PNA)