Coffin Crossing Prompts Hilongos to Restore Footbridge

Posted on Feb. 15, 2026 at 10:36 am

HILONGOS, Leyte — After a coffin was carried across a raging river in Sitio Macupa, Barangay Bung-aw, Hilongos on February 9, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the local government unit of Hilongos have taken immediate action to restore the damaged footbridge.

Residents are optimistic that this initiative will lead to safer access to their community.

MDRRMO Head Neil Melvin Flordelis stated that approximately 70 families in Sitio Macupa have been facing challenges with dangerous river crossings since the footbridge was destroyed by strong currents, resulting in the area being cut off during inclement weather.

On February 9, a 70-year-old man passed away in the sitio, prompting his family to proceed with a prompt burial. However, due to the swollen river and the narrow and hazardous mountain route as an alternative, the barangay captain sought assistance from the MDRRMO to transport the coffin.

Responders arrived at 7 a.m., but it took until 11 a.m. to safely transport the coffin across the river after identifying a section with weaker currents.

Authorities observed that water levels were rising rapidly due to runoff from the towns of Hindang and Inopacan.

Using a traverse line, responders carefully moved the coffin across the river, eventually reaching its final resting place.

The MDRRMO advised residents to avoid crossing the river during strong currents to ensure public safety. The LGU reported that a site has been identified for the immediate rehabilitation of the damaged footbridge.

Residents of Sitio Macupa are urging the swift implementation of the project, hoping it will prevent similar incidents and protect their community from further danger, particularly during severe weather.

(Photo Courtesy: Joe Vann Spearow)