Authorities Urge Contractors to Strengthen Safety Measures at Construction Sites
Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur – A 31-year-old man was killed while his passenger was critically injured after their motorcycle fell from an under-construction bridge in Barangay Bulanit, Labangan, early dawn on Thursday, October 17, 2025.
The fatality was identified as Remlani Pinonggan, a married resident of Barangay Lemonan, San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur, and a father of three. His passenger, whose name was not immediately disclosed, was rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment due to multiple injuries sustained from the accident.
According to initial police investigation, the victims were on their way home from a vigil in Tukuran aboard a Skygo 150 single motorcycle when they accidentally overshot the bridge, which is currently under repair. The strong impact caused Pinonggan’s instant death after sustaining a severe head injury.
Witnesses and responding authorities said there were no adequate warning signs, barriers, or lighting in the area to alert motorists about the ongoing construction work. Residents have since expressed concern over the safety of travelers passing through the site, especially at night.
Local officials and safety advocates are calling on the contractors responsible for the bridge repair to take full responsibility for ensuring public safety in and around the construction area. This includes:
- Installing visible signage and reflective barriers,
- Providing sufficient lighting during nighttime, and
- Implementing clear detour routes to prevent similar accidents.
Authorities from the Labangan Municipal Police Station are conducting a thorough investigation to determine whether negligence played a role in the tragedy. They also plan to coordinate with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to review the safety compliance of the contractors involved.
Residents and motorists passing through the area are urged to exercise extra caution while traversing roads under construction, as local officials push for stricter safety enforcement to prevent further loss of lives.