MANILA — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed the construction of a hanging steel bridge for the residents of Barangay Kihan, an inland barangay in the municipality of Malapatan, Sarangani Province.
In his report to Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, DPWH Region 12 Director Basir M. Ibrahim said that ₱5.78 million was spent for the implementation of the project that involves the construction of a 56-meter steel hanging footbridge, drainage, 83 lineal meters of slope protection structure, and a 35-meter portland concrete cement pavement which connects the hanging bridge to the main road.
Implemented by DPWH Sarangani District Engineering Office with funding from the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA), the project was facilitated to ensure the safety of Barangay Kihan residents, some are indigenous people, especially in the occurrence of typhoons.
“Heavy rainfall causes the water from the river to rise, isolating Barangay Kihan entirely and preventing locals from having access to crucial services in times of calamities,” said Director Ibrahim.
The completed project has allowed school children, farmers, and other locals safer passage to the town proper for their education, livelihood, and other daily necessities.
Also catering motorcycles, the steel bridge contributes to the increased agricultural productivity in the area with cheaper transport costs for delivering farm produce to bigger market hubs in the municipal proper.
Aside from improved connectivity, this project is also expected to promote tourism in the inner areas of Malapatan, where travelers can visit the famous Blaan Dreamweavers and explore mangrove forests, marine sanctuaries, rivers, and natural cliffs. (DPWH)
