Tangub City: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has commenced repairs on the damaged asphalt pavement of the Panguil Bay Bridge in Northern Mindanao. This critical infrastructure project, which connects Tangub City in Misamis Occidental to Tubod in Lanao del Norte, is undergoing emergency repair works to address defects caused by overloaded vehicles and adverse weather conditions. According to Philippines News Agency, DPWH Unified Project Management Office-Roads Management Cluster 2 (UPMO-RMC 2) project director Teresita Bauzon reported that the Namkwang-Kukdong-Gumgwang joint venture (NKG JV) began the repair works on Sunday in the Tangub City to Tubod direction. The Tubod to Tangub City direction has been temporarily opened to two-way traffic to minimize disruptions while repairs continue around the clock. The emergency repairs on the Tangub City to Tubod direction are expected to conclude by Monday morning, after which the focus will shift to the Tubod to Tangub direction, with a target c ompletion by 7 a.m. Tuesday. Motorists are advised to maintain a steady pace and avoid stopping on the bridge to ensure smooth traffic flow. Bauzon emphasized that the defects are limited to the asphalt pavement and do not compromise the structural integrity of the 3.17-kilometer bridge. The contractor has been instructed to replace the damaged asphalt at no additional cost, as the project's completion certificate has not yet been issued. An in-depth assessment by DPWH and Yooshin-Pyunghwa-Kyongho JV identified the cause of the damage as trucks exceeding the bridge's 30-ton design capacity. To ensure long-term durability, the DPWH has mandated the contractor to submit a comprehensive repair plan, including a revised asphalt mix design and waterproofing measures. The bridge, which opened on September 27, 2024, experienced surface damage due to overloaded vehicles crossing before enforcement measures were in place. Torrential rains have exacerbated the issue, leading to further pavement deformation and potho les. Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain highlighted the importance of enforcing the anti-overloading policy under Republic Act 8794 to protect the bridge's pavement. This policy aims to ensure compliance with the prescribed gross vehicle weight and axle load limit of 13.5 tons, preventing premature road and bridge deterioration. The DPWH UPMO-RMC 2 is coordinating with the DPWH Regional Office 10 to establish 24/7 weighing facilities at both ends of the bridge. Portable weighing scales have been installed, though continuous monitoring remains a challenge due to funding constraints. The Panguil Bay Bridge is a vital infrastructure project that promises to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth.