Acting Gov. Isidro Zayco yesterday appealed to scrap iron collectors not to remove beams and bolts from bridges as this could endanger the lives of the public.

Zayco issued the appeal following the collapse of the 1927 Talubangi Bridge in Kabankalan City Thursday that caused the drowning of a 4-year-old child. It was discovered that some of the steal beams of the pre-World War II bridge had been stolen, which is suspected to be one of the reasons for its collapse, he said.

He said it was also discovered that cross beam braces and bolts of the newly-built Talubangi bridge in Kabankalan have also been stolen, and he has instructed the Department of Public Works and Highways to address the problem.

Zayco said he is issuing an executive order to the provincial engineer to inspect all provincial government-built bridges to ensure that they are safe for commuters, and making a similar appeal to the DPWH to act on nationally funded bridges.

Asked about his relationship with Candoni Mayor Cicero Borromeo whom he had a heated altercation with last week, Zayco said, "I just forgive and forget."

Zayco said he has not heard from Borromeo since the incident but the province will continue to assist Candoni town.*CPG

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