San Juanico Bridge Inspection Reveals Urgent Issues
TACLOBAN CITY – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently conducted an inspection of the San Juanico Bridge, highlighting the need for urgent rehabilitation. The iconic bridge, constructed during the administration of his father, President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., serves as the vital land link between Samar and Leyte islands.
During the visit, the President acknowledged the government’s early plans for the San Juanico Bridge rehabilitation. However, he shared concerns raised by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) engineers about the bridge’s deteriorating condition. “Sinabi ng mga engineer na isara natin ito dahil babagsak ito kapag minalas tayo,” he stated, emphasizing the critical safety risks involved.
Government experts noted that the bridge’s maintenance schedule, expected every three years, may not have been properly followed, leading to visible structural defects. This alarming situation has prompted authorities to impose a strict three-ton load limit on vehicles crossing the bridge since May 15.
State of Calamity and Funding Efforts
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) recommended placing Eastern Visayas under a state of calamity, which President Marcos signed on June 5 via Resolution No. 1, Series of 2025. The declaration responds to the increasing hazards posed by the bridge’s compromised structure.
Regional DPWH Director Edgar Tabacon expressed optimism that the President’s inspection would expedite the release of a proposed P1.17-billion budget. This fund aims to strengthen the bridge and restore its load capacity to 33 tons. Tabacon explained that once funding is secured, civil works could be completed within five months, although this excludes procurement time.
The Regional Development Council (RDC-8) has already approved a resolution urging immediate funding. They plan to source the necessary budget from the NDRRMC’s calamity fund and the Department of Budget and Management’s unprogrammed funds for 2024.
Infrastructure and Transport Updates
Before visiting the San Juanico Bridge, President Marcos inspected Amandayehan Port, the temporary staging area for vehicles traveling from Basey, Samar to Tacloban City. The RDC-8 is also working to improve transport services by adding roll-on roll-off vessels and night voyages. This aims to accommodate the growing number of vehicles and passengers affected by the bridge’s load restrictions.
The San Juanico Bridge, stretching 2.16 kilometers, remains a crucial part of the Pan-Philippine Highway (also known as Maharlika Highway/AH26), connecting Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Its rehabilitation is not only essential for safety but also for maintaining the region’s economic and social connectivity.
For more news and updates on San Juanico Bridge rehabilitation, visit Filipinokami.com.