MANILA, Feb. 16 -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Friday reported the completion of a safer and sturdier concrete bridge worth over PHP29 million to replace an unstable makeshift bridge used by residents in Caloocan City.

In a statement, DPWH National Capital Region (NCR) director Loreta Malaluan noted that the new permanent bridge in Barangay 176 will provide safer access between Bigaa and Malanting streets.

"I was informed that the residents in the area used to cross an improvised bridge made from scrap metals. The makeshift bridge was also built below flood level, making it hardly passable during the rainy season," she said.

The upgraded two-lane bridge with sidewalk, drainage, and safety screen, is accessible...