House Spokesperson Calls for Action Over San Juanico Bridge
MANILA, Philippines — The tension between Senator Imee Marcos and the House of Representatives spokesperson Princess Abante escalated after Abante accused the senator of politicking instead of prioritizing the pressing issues surrounding the San Juanico Bridge. The call for concrete measures came amid ongoing concerns about the bridge’s condition.
Princess Abante presented detailed data on Friday to counter claims that Congress has neglected the San Juanico Bridge. She emphasized the need for cooperation rather than political bickering at this crucial time.
“Nakakalungkot na habang tayo ay abala sa pagtugon sa problema sa San Juanico Bridge, may ilan na inuuna pa rin ang pamumulitika kaysa pagtulong—gaya ng mga patutsada ni Senadora Imee Marcos,” Abante said. (It is sad that while we are busy addressing the problem at the San Juanico Bridge, some still prioritize politics over helping, such as the innuendos made by Sen. Imee Marcos.)
Budget Allocations Show Congressional Effort
According to Abante, the House has consistently allocated funds for the bridge’s rehabilitation since 2018. These include P27 million in 2018; P22 million in 2019; P105 million in 2021; P90 million in 2022; P150 million in 2023; and a proposed P400 million for 2026. This financial commitment demonstrates the lower chamber’s dedication to maintaining the vital infrastructure.
“Kaya nakapagtataka—at nakakatawa na rin—na si Senadora Imee pa ang nagtatanong kung bakit may aberya. Noong kampanya, proud siyang sabihing taga-Leyte siya. Tarpaulin dito, picture doon. Sinasabing may dugo rin siyang Waray. Pero ngayong may krisis—imbes na tumulong, puro sisi?” Abante added. (That’s why it’s surprising—and even funny—that Sen. Imee is the one asking why there’s a problem. During the campaign, she was proud to say she’s from Leyte. A tarpaulin here, a picture there. It’s said that she also has Waray blood. But now that there’s a crisis—instead of helping, she’s blaming others?)
Coordination and Cooperation Needed, Not Politics
In response, Abante challenged Senator Marcos to show what actions she has taken to resolve the issues affecting the San Juanico Bridge. She argued that the problem is not a lack of budget but rather weak coordination, inadequate contingency planning, and insufficient agency response.
“Kung tunay tayong nagmamalasakit sa mga taga-Leyte at Samar, tumigil na tayo sa pasaring. Trabaho muna bago pulitika. Hindi ‘to panahon ng paandar—panahon ‘to ng pagtutulungan,” Abante said. (If we truly care about the people of Leyte and Samar, let’s stop making excuses. Work first before politics. This is not a time for gimmicks—this is a time for cooperation.)
Senator Marcos, sister of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and daughter of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., under whose administration the San Juanico Bridge was constructed, previously claimed that only a small budget was allocated for the bridge’s rehabilitation. However, local leaders and sources affirm that funds have been steadily provided over the years.
For more news and updates on the San Juanico Bridge, visit Filipinokami.com.