The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has launched an investigation into the sudden collapse of the Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan, on Monday afternoon, October 6, 2025. Initial findings suggest that overloading may have caused the structural failure.
According to the DPWH, the bridge was only designed to carry a maximum load of 18 tons. However, reports indicate that three heavy trailer trucks, each estimated to weigh around 50 tons, attempted to cross the bridge before it gave way. The excessive load may have exceeded the bridge’s capacity and led to its collapse.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon has already deployed personnel to the site to conduct a full assessment. “We are looking at overloading as the primary cause, but further technical evaluation is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances that led to the incident,” a DPWH statement read.
The Cagayan Provincial Information Office, citing the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Alcala, confirmed that several trucks were caught in the collapse. Authorities are still verifying whether there were casualties or injuries resulting from the incident.
In the meantime, the Task Force Lingkod Cagayan – Quick Response Team (TFLC-QRT) Amulung Station has been mobilized to assist. According to Cecile Domingo of TFLC-QRT, rescue personnel are on standby at the site to ensure public safety. Warning signs and barricades have also been placed around the collapsed bridge to prevent further accidents.
The collapse has completely cut off vehicle passage on the Piggatan Bridge, forcing motorists to take alternate routes. Local authorities are now working to guide drivers and coordinate traffic flow in affected areas.
Residents of Alcala expressed concern over the incident, noting that the bridge served as a vital link for transport and commerce in the municipality. Calls for stricter enforcement of load limits on bridges and roads have also been raised to prevent similar accidents in the future.
As of this writing, investigations remain ongoing while DPWH and local disaster officials continue to monitor the situation and assess the extent of damage. The public is advised to avoid the area and follow designated detours until further notice.