By GLAZYL MASCULINO
BACOLOD CITY – Eight people, including four minors, were injured after a hanging bridge collapsed Sunday in Barangay Camugao, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.
Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Unit (DRRMO) division head Elbert Javellana said the victims fell into the river while they were watching a fluvial parade as part of the highlights of the annual Sinulog Festival in the city.
The bridge was probably overloaded with people, causing its collapse, he added.
Rescuers responded immediately as they were already stationed in the area for the parade.
Javellana said the victims sustained minor injuries and were brought to a hospital.
He said the bridge has been used for about 20 years now, connecting Camugao village to the barangay proper.
“People seldom pass by there but because of the parade, people flocked at the area to witness the event,” he added.
He said a new bridge was already constructed but because of the parade, people would usually position themselves on the hanging bridge to witness the festivity.
Due to the incident, the bridge was temporarily closed pending investigation and instructions from the authorities.
