Tarlac declares state of calamity as floods wreck 2 bridges

The Aquino Bridge in Tarlac City, Tarlac, is seen partially collapsed on Aug. 28, 2026.

Radyo Pilipinas / Grace Acuar

MANILA, Philippines — Tarlac has been placed under a state of calamity after severe flooding damaged two bridges and disrupted major roads.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved Resolution No. 416-2026 during a special session Sunday, August 30, citing the widespread and continuing effects of heavy southwest monsoon rains.

The resolution said continuous rainfall had caused widespread flooding and other rain-induced hazards, "rendering major thoroughfares impassable," including after portions of the Ninoy Aquino Bridge and Agana Bridge collapsed.

The provincial board also cited damage to agricultural crops and properties and severe disruption to the livelihood and day-to-day activities of communities.

The provincial board said the bad weather had "significantly disrupted transportation, access to essential services, agricultural operations, and other economic undertakings."

It also warned that vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure remained exposed to possible further damage and disruption.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council recommended the declaration, citing the extent and severity of the damage and the need for "immediate, coordinated, and sustained relief, response, recovery and rehabilitation measures" across Tarlac.

A portion of the Ninoy Aquino Bridge in Tarlac City first collapsed late Friday, August 28, amid strong currents in the Tarlac River. Another portion of the bridge gave way Sunday as high water and strong currents persisted.

The Agana Bridge, which had been used as an alternative route after the Aquino Bridge was closed, also collapsed Saturday night, August 29.

A vehicle carrying five people fell into the river when part of the Agana Bridge gave way. One passenger was rescued, while four others remained missing as search operations continued.

The back-to-back bridge failures have disrupted routes linking Tarlac City with communities west of the Tarlac River.

Temporary access eyed

Authorities have begun working on temporary measures to restore access.

Heavy equipment was deployed near the Agana Bridge as preparations were made for a temporary Bailey bridge, while the Department of Public Works and Highways has been assessing possible repairs and temporary access at the damaged Ninoy Aquino Bridge.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon inspected the Aquino Bridge over the weekend as authorities assessed damage from the swollen Tarlac River.

The state of calamity declaration allows the provincial government to mobilize resources for relief, recovery and rehabilitation efforts following the severe flooding.

More rain possible

The disruption comes as the southwest monsoon continues to affect Tarlac and other parts of Luzon.

PAGASA's weekly outlook said occasional rain may persist over Tarlac through Tuesday, September 1, as the enhanced southwest monsoon continues to affect Luzon.

The weather bureau has warned that repeated rainfall may heighten the risk of flooding in areas where the ground and waterways have already absorbed significant rain.

Authorities continue to assess damage to roads, bridges, agricultural areas and private property across Tarlac.