FOLLOWING the Matina Crossing overpass’ temporary closure, the cracks seen on the overpass on August 15, 2022 were superficial cracks, according to the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) of Davao.
The CEO confirmed this on Tuesday, August 16, after the office inspected the structural integrity of the overpass after it sustained hairline cracks from an earthquake that happened the day before.
Atty. Joseph Felizarta told SunStar Davao in a text message that the Matina Crossing overpass did not sustain major damage or cracks to its main structural members.
Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) chief Alfredo Baloran said the overpass already has visible cracks sustained through the years; however, the recent earthquake added more cracks to it.
Baloran said the inspection done by the CEO was necessary to ensure that the overpass would still be safe to use.
“Mao gi-recommend nato na dili sa paagian for safety sa atong mga kaigsuonan (That’s why it was temporarily closed for the safety of the people),” Baloran said during a radio interview.
In addition, he said there were no reported damage or untoward incidents caused by the earthquake on Monday, as well as casualties or injuries.
As of writing, the CEO did not yet release a formal report on the result of their inspection. They also yet to release an advisory as to when the overpass would become passable again for pedestrians.
The earthquake on Monday had a magnitude of 5.6 centered in the municipality of Magsaysay in Davao del Sur. Baloran said magnitude 4 was felt in Davao City.
In line with this, the CDRRMO chief urged Dabawenyos to report if there are any cracks found on residential, commercial, or industrial buildings and other infrastructure due to earthquakes or other natural calamities.
This way, concerned offices like the CEO would be able to inspect the structural integrity to ensure that the public will remain safe within its premises. ICM