Bankerohan Bridge II reopens

DAVAO CITY- Highlighted by a spectacle of dancing traffic aides, the newly repaired Governor Generoso (Bankerohan) Bridge II was opened to traffic early morning today (November 17).

The bridge was totally closed last April 22 to traffic as it underwent a P69-million repair program. The repair was necessary as the bridge pillar’s were already exposed due to souring.

The Department of Public Works and Highways identified sand quarrying near the bridge as one of the major causes of erosion that contributed to the souring and without the immediate repair, the bridge is prone to collapse.

The bridge repair was supposed to be started December 2013 but was postponed due to the presence of illegal settlers living under the bridge.

The closure resulted to heavy traffic as the bridge is a major artery which connects the southern part of the city towards the downtown area.

Unforeseen factors such as bad weather has contributed to delays in the project. 

From the planned October 6 completion the target date was moved to November.

City and DPWH officials attended the simple reopening and blessing. The city’s dancing Traffic Management Command personnel danced during the opening.   

“Timing na na-open siya during the christmas season.” (finally it was opened during the christmas season.) says Raphael Meting, a motorist who regularly traverses the route.

The delays in the opening has earned the ire of many Dabawenyos.

City Councilor Bernard Al-ag filed two resolutions in the city’s Sangguniang Panglungsod citing his frustration over the delays of the repair.

Mayor Rodrigo Duterte meanwhile wanted the repairs be hastened but he said there is no need to rush as long as it will guarantee the safety of the bridge. (PIA/RG Alama)