TARLAC CITY, Tarlac — Installation of pontoons in the Tarlac River began on October 3, marking a significant step toward providing an alternative crossing to the western side of the city.
The initiative is a joint effort of the City Engineer’s Office, the City Government of Tarlac, the Provincial Government of Tarlac, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). It aims to ensure that residents can safely cross the river for work, business, school, and other daily activities.
The move comes after the partial collapse of the Aquino Bridge last month following heavy monsoon rains, which forced students and commuters to resort to dangerous makeshift crossings using airbeds pulled by locals.
In response to a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the MMDA deployed emergency response equipment and personnel to Tarlac City on September 25. The assets included 50 pontoon units, 50 life vests, and eight engine-operated rubber boats, along with four trucks and 45 personnel from the agency’s Public Safety Office.
“We will leave the pontoons in the area as long as necessary to give affected Tarlac City residents a safer way to cross the river,” MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes said.
Tarlac City Mayor Susan Yap, who personally inspected the equipment, expressed her gratitude for the national government’s support.
“Sinimulan na ang pagkakabit ng ating mga pontoons sa may Aquino bridge, isa sa mga hakbang upang magkaroon ng alternatibong paraan ng pagtawid patungo sa western side ng ating siyudad,” Yap said. “Patuloy ang ating paghahanda at pagkilos upang masiguro ang ligtas at mas maayos na pagdaan ng ating mga kababayan.”
The city government also extended its profound gratitude to President Marcos, MMDA Chairman Artes, Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos, and the national government for their immediate response and support for the needs of Tarlaqueños.
Authorities have advised the public to wait for further announcements from the Tarlac City Government regarding the official start of the rubber boat and pontoon operations.
