MANILA - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) opened the Westbound lanes of Marcos Bridge in Marikina City, Thursday, saying the new infrastructure can withstand a 7.2-magnitude quake.

The Eastbound lanes of the bridge located near the West Valley Fault, the longest fault line traversing the capital region, were opened last September after work started in May.

“Kahit 7.2 magnitude kaya niya i-withstand so malakas, matibay talaga itong bridge, siyempre ayaw din natin magkaroon ng Big One,” DPWH Secretary Mark Villar told reporters, referring to the massive quake expected to generate from the West Valley Fault.

(This bridge is really strong and sturdy because we ensured that it can withstand a 7.2-magnitude quake, but of course we are not hoping for The Big One to happen.)

LOOK: DPWH Sec. Mark Villar and Marikina City Mayor Marcy Teodoro open the Marcos Bridge along Marcos Highway after a total of 5 months of rehabilitation and major repair. Villar said the bridge can withstand 7.2 magnitude quake. pic.twitter.com/vLnK5nX651

— Adrian Ayalin (@adrianayalin) October 31, 2019

The full opening of the Marcos bridge will help ease traffic in Marikina City, Mayor Marcy Teodoro said.