The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) formally opened a bridge in Sta. Ignacia, Tarlac.

The P14.05-million infrastructure links the agricultural barangays of San Sotero, Calipayan, Timmaguab, Cabugbugan and Caanamongan.

DAR Secretary Bernie Cruz said the newly built Calipayan Bridge was funded under the “Tulay ng Pangulo para sa Kaunlarang Pang-Agraryo” program and was implemented by DPWH Regional Office III.

About 1,170 agrarian reform beneficiaries belonging to the Kapit Bisig Agrarian Reform Community will benefit from the project as it will help them in transporting their crops from farms to major markets in Central Luzon.

DPWH Regional Director Roseller Tolentino said the double-lane, 45.60-linear meter Calipayan Bridge has a 105.05-linear meter approach at both ends. It was built using French Universal Bridge (Unibridge) Technology.

“The superstructure consisted of steel girders, deck panel and railing posts, while its substructures were full-height reinforced concrete abutments founded on cast-in-place spread footings,” he explained.

Bridge approaches have an embankment fill, protected with grouted riprap structures. (PIA 3)