Severe Tropical Storm Opong Causes Bacalan Bridge Collapse
Travel between the provinces of Antique and Aklan on Panay Island has come to a complete stop after the Bacalan Bridge approach in Sebaste town, Antique, collapsed on Friday, September 26, 2025. This incident occurred following the heavy rains brought by Severe Tropical Storm Opong.
The closure of Bacalan Bridge has cut off direct access linking Antique’s three municipalities to neighboring Aklan. Local leaders reported that the collapse has severely disrupted daily commutes and the transport of goods, leaving residents stranded and businesses affected.
Impact on Communities and Transportation
Community members expressed deep concern over the sudden loss of this vital infrastructure. “Daku gid ang epekto sini sa amon adlaw-adlaw nga biyahe,” a Sebaste resident shared. Officials noted that alternative routes are limited and longer, causing delays and additional expenses for travelers and transport operators.
Authorities are coordinating emergency response efforts while assessing the damage. Engineers are expected to conduct thorough inspections soon to determine the full extent of the destruction and the timeline for repairs.
Government and Local Response
Local government units in both Antique and Aklan have mobilized resources to assist affected residents. Relief operations and temporary transport solutions, such as shuttle services, are being explored to ease the impact. Officials reported that continuous communication with regional agencies aims to expedite the rehabilitation of Bacalan Bridge.
Meanwhile, community members continue to adapt to the disruption, with many urging swift action to restore connectivity between Antique and Aklan.
Outlook and Safety Measures
With Severe Tropical Storm Opong’s aftermath still unfolding, experts emphasize the importance of infrastructure resilience against extreme weather. Local leaders noted that this incident highlights the need for improved disaster preparedness and stronger bridges to withstand future storms.
Travelers are advised to stay updated on road conditions and heed safety advisories until the Bacalan Bridge is fully restored.
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