By Helen Castaño | 11:14 AM June 10, 2026
MARIBOJOC, Bohol — Authorities have temporarily closed Bato Bridge in Barangay Cabawan, Maribojoc, Bohol after a portion of its approach collapsed, rendering the structure unsafe for vehicular traffic.
Residents said the collapse was discovered early Tuesday morning when the limestone fill serving as the bridge’s access road suddenly subsided due to soil erosion beneath the structure.
According to residents, the bridge was constructed on soft ground, which may have contributed to the failure of the approach section.
Heavy rains and recurring flooding reportedly weakened the soil, causing the approach slab and its supporting embankment to sink and eventually collapse.
Visible cracks had already appeared on portions of the bridge before the incident, raising concerns among residents.
No injuries were reported in connection with the collapse.
The closure has disrupted travel for residents and motorists who rely on the bridge.
Residents now have to walk about half a kilometer from the national highway to reach the damaged section. Some pedestrians have been crossing along the side of the bridge to get to the other end.
Motorists have been advised to take the Aliguay–San Roque–Toril–Busao–Agahay route as an alternative while repair and assessment work is underway.
The Department of Public Works and Highways First District Engineering Office has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
