DPWH Commits ₱75 Million to Complete Stalled Arayat Bridge

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is moving to finish a long-standing infrastructure project in Pampanga. During a site inspection on Friday, January 23, 2026, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon committed ₱75 million for the completion of the San Agustin Norte Bridge in Arayat.

This project is part of a broader review by the DPWH to address delayed infrastructure within the province. The move signals a renewed focus on finishing vital connections that support local commerce and resident safety.

Overcoming Years of Delay

The San Agustin Norte Bridge has been stalled for nearly eight years primarily due to funding issues. The structure is considered a vital link for the town of Arayat, but progress had halted, leaving the local community waiting for a permanent solution.

To ensure the project stays on track this time, the DPWH has set an ambitious goal to complete the bridge within the year. The ₱75 million budget is specifically earmarked to cover the remaining construction requirements.

Collaborative Efforts for Local Mobility

The completion of the bridge relies on coordination between national and local government units. Key leaders were present during the inspection to show support, including DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, Pampanga Vice Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda and Arayat Mayor Jeffrey Luriz.

The provincial government of Pampanga and the Arayat local government unit (LGU) have both vowed to resolve remaining right-of-way concerns. By clearing these legal and land issues, officials hope to prevent any further work stoppages.

Impact on the Arayat Community

Once finished, the San Agustin Norte Bridge is expected to significantly improve mobility for residents and motorists. In the Philippine construction context, reliable bridges are essential for transporting agricultural goods and ensuring safe passage during the rainy season.

Beyond the bridge, Secretary Dizon also inspected the Arnedo Dike, which has sustained damage from heavy truck traffic. This highlights the ongoing need for strict adherence to load limits and robust maintenance standards to protect local infrastructure.

Ensuring Construction Safety and Standards

While the bridge project brings hope, recent infrastructure failures in the region serve as a reminder of the importance of quality engineering. On the same day as the inspection, the ₱273 million Candating Flood Control structure collapsed for the third time.

For our local builders and engineers, this underscores the necessity of following DPWH standards and using high-quality materials to ensure that provincial projects can withstand local environmental pressures.