Brgy. Burabud, Laoang, Northern Samar – For the traveling public’s welfare and for a safe road network within its jurisdiction, the Department of Public Works and Highways Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH-NSSDEO) conducted an inspection on the damaged deck slab (Span 2) of Balud Bridge in San Roque, Northern Samar, on June 22, 2026, as per instruction by District Engineer Atty. Arthur Eric L. Sabong. The inspection was led by OIC-Assistant District Engineer Francisco Y. Tañala, together with the District Inspectorate Team composed of Engr. Fiona A. Anunciado, Chief, Construction Section; Engr. Nicanor L. Mejos, Jr., Acting Chief, Maintenance Section; Engr. Bryan Fortes, Assistant Chief, Quality Assurance Section; and Engr. Joseph C. Romance, Chief, Planning and Design Section, as well as the Bridge Management System (BMS) Personnel, Engr. Jessther Diann P. Sosing and Engr. Mikhail Benedik Mondigo from the NSSDEO Planning and Design Section.
The inspectorate team observed concrete deterioration (spalling) on the deck slab of Span 2, specifically between Girder 5 and Girder 6, affecting approximately 12.00 square meters. The deterioration exposed reinforcing bars which have broken off due to aging, impact, and corrosion from prolonged exposure to moisture.
Based on the findings and observations of the inspectorate team, DE Sabong directed the district office maintenance personnel to immediately install warning signs, barricades, and other traffic safety devices in the affected area to ensure the safety of the traveling public.
According to Engr. Mejos, the NSSDEO is currently preparing the program of works and purchase order for the necessary repair materials and activities. After procurement, repair and rehabilitation works will be undertaken immediately to prevent further deterioration and restore the bridge’s structural integrity, safety, and serviceability.
This initiative reflects the district office’s commitment to public service and maintaining resilient infrastructure. The agency aims to restore the bridge’s structural integrity and load capacity, safeguarding the traveling public and supporting the mobility. DPWH NSSDEO remains steadfast in its mandate to deliver quality, safe, and serviceable.
This initiative reflects the district office’s commitment to public service and maintaining resilient infrastructure. The agency aims to restore the bridge’s structural integrity and load capacity, safeguarding the traveling public and supporting the mobility. DPWH NSSDEO remains steadfast in its mandate to deliver quality, safe, and serviceable.
(Jamaica I. Acebuche/PR)
