A video of a dangerous bridge in Barbaza, Antique has gone viral, highlighting the risks residents face while crossing it amidst heavy rains brought by a series of typhoons and the southwest monsoon. The water beneath the bridge is raging, making it highly perilous for anyone attempting to cross. Despite the obvious danger of the bridge possibly collapsing, residents continue to use it, as it is a vital link for their daily activities.
The video, which has caught the attention of many online users, shows the struggles of residents as they carefully cross the bridge, with some visibly afraid of the fast-flowing water below. It has sparked concern and outrage, particularly because the bridge’s condition puts people’s lives at risk. One notable aspect of the viral post is the appeal made to President Bongbong Marcos, calling for immediate government attention, especially considering the millions of pesos allocated for flood control projects across the country.
This situation has drawn attention amid ongoing discussions about the national budget for 2025. Political leaders and departments have been actively debating over the billions of pesos assigned to various projects, with some departments fighting to secure larger shares of the budget. However, this incident in Barbaza highlights the need to prioritize assistance to remote and underserved areas, where people often face life-threatening situations due to inadequate infrastructure.
Mr. President! Asan ang Flood Plan Control? Huwag
— Zerbi (@Gerbi_23) September 16, 2024
puro concert at party!
🐊 Tambaloslos! AYUDA King! Hari ng BUDGET!
Wag puro pasikat pamimigay ng Ayuda at ka Ipokritahan 🙄 at ikaw ang may hawak ng BUDGET? Bakit hindi mo bigyan ng pansin ang kakabayan natin sa BARBAZA ANTIQUE. pic.twitter.com/WdGQAq2KoQ
For years, residents in these far-flung areas have struggled to gain attention for their needs, despite facing pressing issues like unsafe roads and bridges. The viral video serves as a reminder that, while political figures argue over large budgets, many communities in the Philippines remain overlooked. The residents of Barbaza, Antique, hope that this situation will prompt the government to allocate more resources to address the urgent needs of the country’s rural and marginalized populations. Before focusing solely on the budget debates, there should be enough attention given to improving the lives and safety of the citizens who are most in need of government support.