Technology
18 Mar 11
Philippines to carry out structural integrity assessment
National bridges in the Philippines are to reasssessed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to check their structural integrity in support of a concerted effort to ensure disaster preparedness.
Secretary Rogelio Singson directed all DPWH regional and district units to reinspect all public buildings as well national bridges to assess their earthquake vulnerability.
DPWH district offices were also directed to get local government units involved in disaster preparedness by checking local roads, bridges and public buildings.
DPWH has been subjecting some old major structures such as the San Juanico Bridge to retrofitting works through steel jacketing, use of carbon fibre and strengthening of foundations. The department is also doubling its efforts to hasten the preparation of plans for the reconstruction, rehabilitation or repair of newly identified bridges in Metro Manila that manifest signs of wear and tear.
