Call for Better Coordination to Cushion San Juanico Bridge Impact
A leading lawmaker in the 19th Congress has urged government agencies and local officials to enhance their coordination efforts to alleviate the disruptions caused by ongoing restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge. This vital infrastructure connects the islands of Leyte and Samar, making smooth operations crucial.
House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list representative Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and local government units (LGUs).
“Given the significance of the San Juanico Bridge as a critical link between Samar and Leyte, it is vital that all concerned agencies work together seamlessly to ensure that contingency measures are well-planned and effectively communicated,” said Libanan in a statement dated Monday, May 19.
Libanan, who hails from Eastern Samar and served as its sole congressional representative for nine years, highlighted the bridge’s importance as the only land connection between the two islands.
Impact of the Weight Limit on San Juanico Bridge
Starting May 15, the DPWH enforced a three-ton gross vehicle weight limit on the bridge due to structural concerns pending repairs. This restriction has caused significant logistical challenges since the bridge is the sole land route linking Leyte and Samar.
Consequently, heavy vehicles have been redirected to roll-on/roll-off ferry services, leading to increased costs, delays, and inconvenience for commuters, small businesses, and regional industries.
Libanan stressed the importance of early planning, timely public advisories, and expanding transport alternatives during such infrastructure interventions. “We encourage the DPWH, DOTr, OCD, and LGUs to strengthen their coordination and communication strategies to minimize the impact on the public. We’ve seen local officials and civil society stepping up in response to the situation—it’s essential that they receive the full support of national agencies,” he added.
He expressed confidence that with improved cooperation, the necessary repairs can proceed without severely disrupting the region. “Let’s use this as an opportunity to build a more responsive system that prioritizes public welfare and regional resilience.”
Government Actions to Support Affected Communities
Meanwhile, the Tingog Party-list, working alongside the Office of the House Speaker, has initiated immediate government responses to ease the burden caused by the partial closure of the San Juanico Bridge.
These efforts aim to reduce difficulties for commuters and businesses while working toward full restoration of transport connectivity. Measures include collaboration with the DPWH and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to identify and prepare alternative routes and ports.
Additionally, temporary passenger terminals and assistance centers have been established on both sides of the bridge to provide shelter, essential services, and emergency support.
“We remain hopeful that full transport and logistics connectivity will be restored at the soonest possible time,” said a representative from the Tingog Party-list. “Tingog Party-list will continue to stand with the people of Eastern Visayas—working hand in hand with government, private sector, and civil society partners—to uphold our mission of caring governance, responsive leadership, and concrete service to the region.”
As these interventions roll out, community leaders and local experts emphasize that better coordination among all stakeholders is key to effectively cushioning the impact of the San Juanico Bridge restrictions and ensuring the region’s resilience.
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