Samar Province Declares State of Emergency Due to San Juanico Bridge Limit
TACLOBAN CITY – The entire Samar province has been placed under a state of emergency as officials respond to the impact of the San Juanico Bridge limit on vital supply routes. This measure aims to address the disruptions caused by weight restrictions on the bridge, which connects Samar to Leyte Island.
During its 150th regular session in Catbalogan City, local authorities approved the declaration following concerns over the flow of essential goods. The San Juanico Bridge, a 53-year-old structure stretching 2.16 kilometers, has been restricted to vehicles weighing no more than three tons since May 15. The Department of Public Works and Highways implemented this limit as part of a two-year rehabilitation project.
Impact on Supplies and Local Economy
This restriction has significantly affected the transportation of fuel, medical supplies, and other necessities from Tacloban City to Samar. Local officials shared that gasoline stations in Samar are experiencing shortages, although some stations have received shipments from the Bicol region.
“The declaration (of state of emergency) will help us control the prices of basic commodities such as food and fuel. Our gasoline stations are running out of supplies, but it’s good that some got stocks from Bicol region,” said a local official after the session.
The oil depot in Babatngon, Leyte serves as the main fuel source for most areas in Samar. To mitigate the impact, the provincial government plans to subsidize transportation costs for fuel shipments coming from Leyte through the port in Barangay Amandayehan, Basey, Samar. Although the port is still under improvement, it offers an alternative route to maintain fuel supply.
State of Emergency Powers and Response
The state of emergency declaration was made in response to a request from the Samar Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. This status grants the government enhanced authority to implement measures that would normally be restricted, allowing for quicker and more effective actions to manage the crisis.
Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating efforts to ensure that essential goods continue to reach Samar residents without causing excessive price hikes or shortages. They emphasize the importance of community cooperation during this challenging period.
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