The oldest bridge in Cagayan, the Buntun Bridge, is undergoing rehabilitation works by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to preserve its structural integrity.
In his report to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, DPWH Regional Office 2 OIC-Director Reynaldo C. Alconcel said that P101.3 million was allocated for the retrofitting and strengthening of Buntun Bridge crossing Cagayan River along Cagayan-Apayao Road in Solana, Cagayan and gateway to Tuguegarao City.
“This is a much-needed major rehabilitation of a 5-decade old steel truss bridge which will guarantee the safety and convenience of residents and travelers going to and from Tuguegarao City proper,” said Director Alconcel.
The Buntun Bridge Rehabilitation Project which is targeted to be completed within the year includes the repair of truss connections, strengthening of buckled diagonal truss members, carbon fiber plate and carbon fiber sheet bonding to the deck slab, repainting of bridge steel members, and installation of solar studs.
Buntun Bridge, which stretches 1.1 kilometer is considered among the longest river-crossing bridge in the Philippines. It was opened to vehicular traffic in 1969.