A partial bridge collapse in the Philippine province of Tarlac sent a vehicle into the Tarlac River, leaving one person dead and three others missing, authorities said.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the incident occurred after part of the Agana Bridge collapsed, causing the vehicle to plunge into the river during severe flooding triggered by the southwest monsoon.

The vehicle was carrying five people. One passenger was rescued shortly after the collapse, one was later found dead, and search operations continue for the remaining three who are believed to have been swept away by the strong river current.

Search operation expands downstream

The body of the deceased victim was recovered about 90 kilometers downstream near Dagupan City in neighboring Pangasinan province, underscoring the strength of the floodwaters.

The Philippine Coast Guard has expanded search operations along a roughly 35-kilometer stretch of the river system, from Aguso to the Ablang River in the municipality of Paniqui. Rescue teams have also used drones to assist the search, although operations have been periodically suspended because strong currents and poor visibility posed risks to emergency personnel.

Temporary bridge planned

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the bridge collapse while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has begun preparations to install a temporary Bailey steel bridge to restore access for affected communities.

The Agana Bridge had been serving as an alternative route after the nearby Aquino Bridge was damaged by flooding a day earlier, leaving Tarlac facing major transportation disruptions after two key river crossings became unusable. Provincial authorities have since declared a state of calamity because of widespread flood damage.(ILKHA)