Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, who inspected the bridge on September 20, said the temporary crossing could open as early as September 21 or by Tuesday, September 22, once the remaining work is completed and the structure passes the required load testing.

The reopening is expected to restore an important connection for residents, commuters and businesses affected by the closure of Agana Bridge.

10-ton weight limit at Agana Bridge

Once opened, the temporary Bailey bridge will operate under a 10-ton maximum vehicle weight limit.

According to DPWH, large trucks and buses will not be permitted to cross. Four-wheeled vehicles, coasters and Elf-type delivery trucks carrying goods may be allowed, provided they comply with the 10-ton restriction.

DPWH, together with the Tarlac City and provincial governments, is expected to identify the specific types of vehicles that will be permitted to use the temporary crossing.

Traffic management measures will also be implemented. Gantries or barriers are planned for both ends of the bridge to help prevent vehicles exceeding the permitted clearance and weight from entering.

Load testing required before opening

Before the Agana Bailey Bridge can officially accommodate public traffic, DPWH said workers must complete the bridge deck and ramp and conduct vehicle load testing.

Dizon emphasized that safety remains the priority and acknowledged that completion had taken about a week longer than the government's earlier estimate.

Motorists are therefore advised not to treat the September 21–22 target as confirmation that the bridge is already open. Residents should wait for the official opening announcement and follow instructions from authorities and traffic personnel stationed in the area.

Agana Bridge collapse disrupted travel in Tarlac

A portion of the Agana Bridge collapsed on August 29, 2026, following heavy rainfall and strong river currents associated with the southwest monsoon or Habagat.

The damaged bridge affected one of Tarlac City's important river crossings and forced motorists to use alternative routes.

According to Dizon, motorists using the detour through Gerona have been experiencing an additional travel time of approximately one to one-and-a-half hours.

The government began installing a temporary Bailey bridge to reconnect the damaged section. By September 18, DPWH reported that structural support beams serving as the foundation of the temporary structure had already been installed, with crews working around the clock.

Permanent plans for Agana and Aquino bridges

The temporary Bailey bridge is not intended to be the final solution.

DPWH has also announced plans to construct parallel bridges at both Agana and Aquino bridges to provide additional bridge capacity in Tarlac City while the existing structures undergo rehabilitation.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had earlier said that the Bailey bridge would initially accommodate pedestrians and light vehicles while longer-term repairs were undertaken.

For the Aquino Bridge, Dizon said the government would coordinate with the provincial government regarding the use of the ₱300-million funding pledged for the project.

What motorists should know

Once the Agana Bailey Bridge officially opens:

Pedestrians and permitted light vehicles will be allowed to cross.

A 10-ton maximum weight limit will be enforced.

Large trucks and buses will not be permitted.

Four-wheeled vehicles, coasters and qualifying Elf-type delivery trucks may be allowed within the weight restriction.

Motorists must follow the final vehicle classifications, traffic signs and instructions from authorities.

Do not attempt to cross until the bridge has been officially opened to the public.

As of the publication of this report on September 21, the September 21–22 schedule remains the announced reopening target. Everything Tarlac will update this report once authorities confirm that the Bailey bridge has officially opened for public crossing.

Everything Tarlac will continue monitoring developments regarding the Agana Bridge, Aquino Bridge, alternative routes and traffic conditions affecting Tarlac residents.