Tacloban: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is evaluating a proposal from Mayor Alfred Romualdez to permit 30-ton trucks to use the San Juanico Bridge under regulated conditions. A regional official from the DPWH mentioned they are considering implementing one-way traffic during non-peak hours, specifically after 10 a.m. and before 3 p.m., as well as late at night.

According to Philippines News Agency, initial discussions have taken place regarding the mayor's suggestion. The DPWH plans to release an official statement about the decision soon, as per an anonymous official. The proposal emerges following concerns related to flood control, which have led local DPWH officials to avoid recorded media interviews.

Mayor Romualdez, during a press briefing, revealed that vehicles up to 30 tons might be permitted to cross the bridge, albeit under controlled conditions. This development follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s recent inspection, where he instructed the local authorities to assess lifting the existing 15-ton restrictions and acknowledged the DPWH's expedited strengthening efforts.

Romualdez assured that the proposed traffic adjustments would be restricted to one-way and during nighttime and non-peak hours, aiming for implementation before the Christmas season. The President had recently inaugurated the reopening of the San Juanico Bridge to heavier vehicles following six months of retrofitting, completed ahead of schedule to accommodate the holiday traffic.

President Marcos praised the DPWH for their rapid repair work, which now allows 15-ton trucks to traverse the bridge that connects Samar and Leyte. The bridge had been inaccessible to vehicles exceeding 3 tons since May 15 due to structural wear caused by aging and adverse weather conditions. The reinforcement project was funded with PHP520 million from the national disaster fund, which facilitated the portal shoring and reinforcement works.