This is the dramatic moment locals risked their lives crawling across a collapsed bridge as floods devastated the Philippines.

Footage shows determined students courageously clinging to a cable, believed to be remnants of a damaged steel bridge, as they cross a swollen river in a remote village to reach their school on July 6.

One student said: 'We were already there and soaking wet. Going back meant walking three to four hours uphill again.'

Teacher Glory Madawat Smith, who recorded the video, said learners from Latbang Village usually board in the neighbouring area of Pinayag in Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya, during weekdays.

Every weekend, they make the long trip home, some with their parents and others on motorbikes. On Sundays, they return to prepare for another school week.

She added: 'These students are not just traversing rivers. They are crossing the gaps between privilege and perseverance. Each step they take on that cable is a testament to how far one will go for knowledge.

'It challenges us, as educators, to continuously reevaluate what flexibility and compassion mean in the classroom.'

She also said that when weather conditions worsen, students are advised to stay home and continue with modular learning instead.

Local media reported that the local government is already planning to build a hanging bridge.

Municipal Engineer Crispin Nisperos Jr noted the original structure was destroyed by Typhoon Man-yi in November 2024.

He added: 'The budget is not yet sufficient, but the program of work has been completed, so we will start immediately. Tomorrow, there will be a site inspection.'

The Philippines and neighbouring Southeast Asian countries are entering their annual monsoon season, marked by soaring temperatures followed by intense rainstorms.

The region's low-lying geography, inadequate drainage systems, and rapid urbanisation make it especially vulnerable to flooding.

Limited infrastructure often struggles to handle the heavy rainfall, resulting in widespread flash floods.