Govt eyes Agas-agas bridge as tourism and sports spot

Lynda B. Valencia

MANILA, July 24 –The government plans to make the 1.5-kilometer Agas-agas bridge in Southern Leyte, one of the projects under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's "Super Regions" concept, as a tourism and sports spot, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

DPWH Secretary Hermogenes E. Ebdane, Jr. said that "the way the bridge is constructed is very modern. This is the first in the country."

He said the national government was looking at putting up parks and other amenities for tourists, visitors, and motorists who wanted to enjoy relaxation.

The government is also eyeing to install a viewing deck for visitors to enjoy watching the green scenery.

Under the 1,000-foot bridge is a river that is ideal for picnic and other family-oriented activities, Ebdane said.

For sports, the bridge is ideal for bunjee jumping, an activity that involves jumping from a tall structure while connected to a large elastic cord.

Southern Leyte lone district representative Roger Mercado said that President Arroyo has ordered the setting up of a platform for bujee jumping,

Mercado said President Arroyo is expected to inaugurate the project by July or August.

The Agas-Agas bridge, also known as viaduct, is a mix of steel and concrete, supported by two piers from the ground, and has a height of about 1,000 feet from the ground.

The construction of the P1.7-billion bridge was seen as a permanent solution to the natural movements of loose soil aggregates, or landslides, in this mountainous area during rainy days reportedly due to a fault line that hinder traffic when the highway is blocked, sometimes resulting to loss of lives and properties.

The project was included in President Arroyo's “Super-Regions” concept since the road network served as a vital link connecting Luzon and Mindanao, via the Maharlika highway through the Liloan Ferry Terminal and the proposed another ferry terminal in Benit, San Ricardo.

The viaduct, extending 350 meters, will by-pass the section of the road which is the direct path of the projected landslides.

The construction of the Agas-agas Bridge is being implemented by the DPWH Philippine Japan Highway Loan-Project Monitoring Office. (PNA)

RMA/LBV/mec

Similar Posts:

• Tallest Leyte bridge also RP's newest tourist attraction
• Japanese envoy to inaugurate Agas-Agas Bridge in S. Leyte
• Treñas hopes city’s nationally-funded projects won’t be affected by his decision to jump ship
• PGMA to launch Eastern Seaboard route of the Strong Republic National Highway (SRNH)
• PGMA to inaugurate Calaba Bridge in Abra