San miguel: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 1st Leyte District Engineering Office is enforcing a load restriction on the Sapiniton Bridge located in San Miguel town. This measure is part of an effort to ensure safety and maintain the structural integrity of the bridge.

According to Philippines News Agency, the bridge is now off-limits to vehicles weighing over 15 tons, effective immediately and until further notice. The new regulations also stipulate that only one vehicle is allowed on the bridge at a time, with a maximum speed limit of 20 kilometers per hour.

The DPWH issued an advisory late Thursday indicating that excessive vibration and noticeable deck deflection were the primary safety concerns leading to the implementation of these restrictions. The bridge connects Barangay Libtong and Barangay Bahay, serving as a vital link to the town of Babatngon near the San Juanico Bridge.

The department emphasized that these steps are crucial to preventing accidents and further structural damage. Public safety remains a top priority, and heavy vehicles are advised to use alternative routes through the nearby towns of Barugo and Sta. Fe.

The DPWH further confirmed that monitoring and technical assessments are ongoing. These evaluations aim to determine the necessary maintenance or repair interventions required to restore the bridge to its full operational capacity.