Manila: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has ordered the company responsible for the bus that caught fire on the EDSA-Ortigas Interchange last week to pay for the repair costs of the damaged flyover.

According to Philippines News Agency, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon issued a formal demand to LS8 Tourist Transport Corporation, instructing the company to bear the expenses associated with the repair, rehabilitation, and any other necessary work on the interchange structure.

The fire, which occurred on April 24, lasted approximately an hour and reportedly compromised critical structural components of the bridges, particularly affecting the soffit of the box girder leading to Greenhills in San Juan.

The DPWH's initial assessment and inspection indicated discoloration deposits underneath the structure, signaling high-temperature exposure and the exposure of reinforcing steel bars in certain localized areas, which have impacted the interchange.

The formal letter stated that the corporation is liable for the damages caused in accordance with applicable laws, including the provision of the Civil Code on quasi-delict, which holds employers and agents accountable for actions within the scope of their assigned duties.