Lagnas Bridge in Sariaya reopens to all vehicles

By Nimfa L. Estrellado Traffic Advisory released following the coordination meeting between the DPWH and the LGU regarding the reopening of ...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

Traffic Advisory released following the coordination meeting between the DPWH and the LGU regarding the reopening of Lagnas Bridge. (Sariaya PIO)

SARIAYA, Quezon – Motorists in Sariaya can now anticipate smoother travel as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Quezon 2nd District Engineering Office officially announced the full reopening of the Lagnas Bridge I known as Mahabang Tulay in Barangay Sampaloc 2. The bridge reopened to all vehicle classes at 12:01 AM today, April 11, 2025.

The Lagnas Bridge reopened following essential repairs and reinforcement, a joint project by the DPWH and the Sariaya LGU, led by Mayor Marcelo P. Gayeta. These repairs, aimed at ensuring structural integrity and user safety, were the result of close coordination, culminating in a meeting on April 10, 2025, where the reopening was finalized with public safety and convenience as top priorities.



Mayor Gayeta personally delivered the announcement via a Facebook Live broadcast on Thursday. He stated, "Simula po bukas, pwede na pong daanan yung ating mga tulay. Dahil po sa tanggapan ng DPWH ay nagpadala po sila ng letter para po sa atin. Sabi po sa ating mga tao na nagbabantay dito, nagbabawal dumaan po sa tulay. Bukas po ng madaling araw ng April 11, pwede na pong dumaan ang lahat ng klase ng sasakyan na dadaanan po dito sa bayan ng Sariaya"

The Lagnas Bridge I itself is a key part of the Maharlika Highway, a vital artery connecting Metro Manila to Southern Quezon and the Bicol region. This connection underscores the bridge's crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods and people, supporting regional transportation and commerce. Its reopening is therefore essential for the local economy and the daily lives of residents, especially with the increased travel demands of peak periods.

Mayor Marcelo Gayeta

Mayor Gayeta also assured the public of the bridge's safety and structural soundness, stating, "Matibay na matibay na po itong mga pelote sa magkabilang side. Magkabilang set po itong mga pelote kaya ito po, matibay na tayo."

A Traffic Advisory further confirms the reopening of Lagnas Bridge I to all vehicle categories and specifies that alternate routes and detours remain available for motorists. According to this traffic advisory these alternate routes, designed to offer motorists viable travel options, include the Quezon Eco Tourism Road - San Juan Candelaria JCT - Candelaria-Bolbok Road - Candelaria By-Pass Road, the San Juan-Candelaria JCT - Candelaria-Bolbok Road - Quezon Eco-Tourism Road, and the Lutucan Guis-Guis Port Road - Quezon Eco-Tourism Road. This provision is particularly important in anticipation of increased traffic during the upcoming Holy Week.

Looking toward future infrastructure improvements, the LGU-DPWH coordination also involved discussions about a potential Lagnas Bridge expansion. The DPWH is considering allocating funds for this project within the next year, reflecting a proactive approach to accommodate future traffic growth and enhance the bridge's long-term capacity.

Mayor Gayeta outlined the DPWH's plans, stating, "By 2026, maaari pong palalapadin daw po yung tulay at gagawin pong four lanes para hindi ho mag-imbudo yung mga tulay." He further emphasized the bridge's accessibility for various vehicle types: "Pwede na pong dumaan ang truck, bus, ano man ang sasakyan."

The DPWH's decision to fully reopen the bridge followed a rigorous structural evaluation, which unequivocally confirmed its stability and ability to safely handle even heavy vehicles. While work on Piers No. 1 and No. 2 is ongoing, the agency has assured the public that the bridge's structural integrity and the prompt completion of the remaining restoration work are their top priorities.

To help manage traffic flow during the traditionally congested Holy Week period, both the LGU and the DPWH are strongly advising the public to plan their travel. Motorists are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the designated alternate routes and to use navigation apps for smoother, safer journeys.

Key stakeholders who participated in the crucial coordination meeting included Municipal Administrator Ronan Nantes, Ferdinand Sedenio (STMG), Lamberto Delos Santos (MDRRMO), Engr. Wendi Lubay (MEO), PCPT Harold Panganiban (DCOP), PSSG Johween Atienza, and representatives from the DPWH 2nd District Engineering Office.

Mayor Gayeta and the DPWH expressed their gratitude to the public for their continued patience and understanding throughout the repair process, reiterating its commitment to providing and maintaining safe, efficient infrastructure in the region. The reopened bridge is expected to provide long-term benefits to the community and the region's connectivity.