Residents of Tboli, South Cotabato, are voicing their frustration over the prolonged delay of the Poblacion–Barangay Laconon bridge project. Despite the expected completion date of April 2024, the structure remains unbuilt, causing significant inconvenience and safety hazards.
Growing Concerns Over Safety and Accessibility
When heavy rains come, vehicles and people cannot pass right away because the water overflows onto the road. We are often stranded and have difficulty traveling.
Pyckz Cordada, Local Resident
- The bridge project began construction on June 6, 2023.
- It was expected to be completed by April 10, 2024.
Villagers from Barangays New Dumanggas and Laconon report that flooding occurs frequently due to the unfinished state of the bridge. This has made travel treacherous, particularly during the rainy season.
The urgency of the bridge's completion was underscored by a tragic incident on July 3, 2026, when Jelly Mar Kunog, a local field worker, died after being struck by a falling rock near the project site. Local authorities have associated the incident with the current state of the infrastructure.
Residents are urging the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to expedite funding and complete the project to mitigate risks and improve travel safety. The DPWH-12 has stated that they are awaiting budget approval to resume construction.
The current situation raises broader questions about infrastructure management and project timelines in the Philippines, particularly in rural areas where reliable access can significantly impact community safety and development.