San Juanico Bridge Weight Limit and Transport Updates
Only light vehicles such as cars, vans, and motorcycles are currently permitted to cross the San Juanico Bridge. This measure comes as the government prepares to rehabilitate the 52-year-old structure connecting Samar and Leyte islands. To ensure safety, authorities have imposed a 3-ton load limit, directing delivery trucks and heavier vehicles to use roll-on/roll-off vessels instead.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently confirmed that the waiting time for transporting both perishable and non-perishable goods across the San Juanico Bridge has drastically improved. Previously, transport delays lasted several days, but now, thanks to prioritization efforts, the delay has been cut down to just a few hours.
Reduced Waiting Time for Essential Goods Transport
During the grand launch of the National Fiber Backbone Phases 2 and 3 in Palo, Leyte, President Marcos emphasized the government’s aim to raise the bridge’s weight limit to between 12 and 15 tons by December. This change will ease transportation of heavier goods and vehicles in the near future.
According to reports from local authorities, people used to wait two to four days to receive their shipments. “The Coast Guard shared that we prioritize the transport of essential goods, especially perishables that can spoil quickly. Now, perishables wait only one to two hours, while non-perishables take about two to three hours. Waiting four hours is considered long,” the President said.
Government Support During Bridge Repairs
Following an inspection of the bridge on June 11, the President assured the public that the government is providing additional assistance to those affected by the ongoing repair and partial closure. Initiatives include allowing night navigation for limited 24/7 crossings and deploying roll-on/roll-off vessels capable of carrying 30 to 50 trucks to maintain the flow of goods.
State of Calamity Declared to Expedite Rehabilitation
To fast-track the repair process and lessen the impact on Samar and Leyte residents, President Marcos signed Proclamation No. 920 on June 5, declaring a state of calamity in Eastern Visayas. This declaration will remain effective for one year, unless it is lifted or extended earlier depending on the situation.
These measures aim to improve logistics and ensure that essential goods reach communities promptly during the rehabilitation period.
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