Passer-by were caught off guard after a backhoe fell last April 30, at the Daguitan Bridge in Barangay Barbo, Dulag, Leyte, as a section of the structure gave way during demolition work, causing the heavy equipment and its driver to fall off the bridge and sustain damage and injuries.
According to initial reports, the injured driver had already been transported by a Dulag Rescue Ambulance to the Dulag Rural Health Unit (RHU) for medical treatment by the time the authorities arrived on scene.
The extent of the driver’s injuries has not been officially disclosed, though responders confirmed that the individual was conscious during transport.
Preliminary findings from responding personnel indicate that the vehicle involved was being used in demolition-related activity on a portion of the Daguitan Bridge, which was reportedly undergoing replacement or reconstruction.
During the operation, part of the bridge structure unexpectedly collapsed. The sudden failure caused the vehicle to lose support and fall, resulting in structural damage to the vehicle and injuries to the driver.
Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding possible lapses in safety measures or whether proper clearance and protocols were followed at the time of the incident.
Investigators are currently gathering statements and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the demolition work and the structural condition of the bridge prior to the collapse.
While official statements avoided drawing early conclusions, the incident has raised concerns about safety management in active construction zones, particularly in areas where public infrastructure is under repair or replacement.
Authorities reiterated that such sites require strict adherence to engineering and occupational safety standards to prevent similar accidents.
Authorities continue to urge workers and contractors involved in infrastructure projects to exercise caution and ensure that safety protocols are consistently observed, especially when operating heavy equipment near elevated or partially dismantled structures
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