Manila: The Eastern Samar provincial government has called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to speed up repairs on two critical bridges as load limits aggravate the fuel crisis in the province. In a statement on Tuesday, the Provincial Development Council (PDC) said it approved a resolution requesting the DPWH to reinforce the Coticot Bridge in Giporlos town and Lawaan Bridge in Lawaan town.
According to Philippines News Agency, the two deteriorated bridges along the main route connecting Tacloban City to Eastern Samar's commercial districts have been closed to vehicles weighing more than 5 tons since March 11, 2026. 'One major concern raised was the delay in fuel deliveries caused by load limits imposed on the bridges. Due to the restrictions, large fuel tankers are currently unable to pass through these routes, affecting the timely transport of fuel into the province,' the provincial government stated.
Local officials stated that strengthening these bridges will enable fuel tankers to pass safely and ensure the prioritized delivery of fuel to Eastern Samar. With the current load limit, motorists are advised to take the longer route of the road stretch from Sta. Rita to Paranas town in Samar to get to Eastern Samar province. Another setback is the 15-ton load limit on the Calbiga Bridge in Samar, which is part of the alternative route.
The bridge was the center of discussion during the joint meeting of the PDC and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Monday. Council members emphasized the need for close fuel price monitoring and responsible use to ensure supplies last across the province. One major concern raised during the meeting was the delay in fuel deliveries caused by load limits imposed on bridges in Barangay Coticot and the municipality of Lawaan.
Eastern Samar Gov. Ralph Vincent Evardone also advised government offices to review non-essential activities and consider postponing or shifting them online to reduce fuel use. According to the governor, collaboration, coordination and monitoring among agencies and stakeholders are crucial to protect the province's fuel supply and economy amid the ongoing global oil crisis.
