Two bridges collapse in the Philippines after heavy rain hits Tarlac
Two major bridges have collapsed in the Philippines’ Tarlac province after days of heavy monsoon rain, cutting key routes and sending a vehicle carrying five people into a swollen river.
The Aquino Bridge partially collapsed shortly before midnight on Friday, August 28, after persistent rain and strong currents, with another section falling on Sunday. The nearby Agana Bridge, which had been used as an alternative route, collapsed on Saturday night. A vehicle carrying five people plunged into the river when part of the Aquino Bridge gave way. One passenger was rescued and taken to hospital, while search teams continued looking for four others as strong currents and ongoing rain hampered operations.
Tarlac has declared a state of calamity after widespread flooding made major roads impassable and damaged homes, property and farmland. The Aquino and Agana bridges are key links between Tarlac City and western municipalities including Sta Ignacia, Mayantoc, Camiling, San Clemente and San Jose. Authorities are working on temporary bridge connections and alternative routes as monsoon rain continues across the province.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
