More residents and local tourists can now safely cross Abra River without having to use rafts with the completion of the new Magmaguey Bridge in La Paz, Abra.
Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark A. Villar expressed optimism that the rehabilitation of the 30-meter concrete bridge connecting Barangay Poblacion in the Municipality of La Paz and Barangay Cardona in the Municipality of Dolores would further improve mobility and boost livelihood.
According to DPWH Abra District Engineer Joselito Arao, the project involved construction of a 7.32-meter wide steel girder bridge across the Abra River aimed to address safety issues as residents previously used rafts during high tide.
The construction of the Magmaguey Bridge, with a total cost of P94.6-millon, has also enabled easier access to the campsites located on both side of the river used by tourists for picnics and overnight stays.
One resident from La Paz who frequently crosses the river to till his farm expressed his gratitude for the bridge project that now allows him to stay in the fields until late at night and still safely go home.
“Aside from advancing connectivity, the improvement of this bridge is necessary to boost the economy of the province and support our farmers,” said Secretary Villar.