Palo: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced on Friday the closure of a vital bridge in Palo, Leyte for its month-long rehabilitation beginning May 5. The 54-meter Bernard Reed Bridge is not passable until June 5 as the DPWH implements a PHP9.64 million major repair project.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DPWH regional office extends its sincere apologies for this inconvenience as this project is a part of their commitment in ensuring safer, stronger, and more reliable infrastructure for everyone. The structure is within the primary arterial road in Leyte that connects Luzon and Mindanao. The bridge was part of the route during Pope Francis' visit to Leyte on Jan. 17, 2015.

With the closure, west-bound motorists or those going to Ormoc City are advised to take the Palo West bypass road or the road from Tigbao village in Tacloban City to Sta. Fe town. Those headed for southern Leyte are advised to take the Guindapunan-Baras-East bypass road or the Government Center-Candahug-Baras-Palo East bypass road.

Built in 1954, the bridge has been a landmark of Palo town, the seat of most government departments, bureaus, and regional offices in Eastern Visayas. It is also home to the offices of the ecclesiastical government of the Roman Catholic Church Archdiocese of Palo.