(Photo courtesy : Manila PIO)
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has certified four major bridges in the capital as safe for use during the upcoming Traslacion of the Black Nazarene, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso announced Wednesday.
Domagoso said the DPWH National Capital Region office assessed the Quezon Bridge, Carlos Palanca Bridge, Ayala Bridge, and Arlegui Bridge 1 and rated them in “fair” condition based on the 2025 Road and Bridge Inventory.
The clearance comes days before the massive religious procession for Nazareno 2026, which draws millions of devotees.
“This is a very important matter to us as a City Government, that we are being assured by the National Government na ligtas tawirin ang ating mga tulay,” Domagoso said during a press briefing held Jan. 7.
The mayor said the city government formally requested the inspections to ensure public safety, given the volume of people expected to cross the structures.
“The other day, I asked the City Engineering Office to update me regarding our request to certify bridges in the City of Manila where our procession or Traslacion will pass through. We already got the certification,” Domagoso said.
According to the DPWH certification, inspectors found that railings and barricades on the bridges were properly installed, secured, and in good serviceable condition. The agency also noted there were no obstructions on bridge decks or pedestrian pathways that could pose risks during the event.
Regarding the Quezon Bridge, which is currently undergoing rehabilitation, the DPWH assured city officials that temporary shoring has been installed to support the structure. The agency stated that repair activities are being managed according to safety and engineering standards.
“As you all know, some of our bridges are being fixed by the National Government through DPWH. So all in all, okay naman,” Domagoso said.
The DPWH stated it has “no objection” to the use of the bridges for the Traslacion route, with the strict condition that no vehicles be allowed to pass along the entire stretch during the procession. (PIA)