Manila: The Marcos administration will be constructing a new and longer bridge adjacent to the existing San Juanico Bridge, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced. This development is part of efforts to address the structural concerns and improve transportation connectivity in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan stated that the major rehabilitation works for the San Juanico Bridge have led to the decision to initiate a new bridge project, which will span approximately 2.6 kilometers. This project is identified as a flagship initiative under the current administration and will receive financial backing from the Japanese government.
Bonoan revealed that the detailed engineering design for the new bridge is currently underway, with an expected completion by 2026. Construction is set to commence immediately following the design phase. The San Juanico Task Group (SJTG) has been established to oversee security, traffic flow, and safety protocols, in response to concerns about the structural integrity of the San Juanico Bridge, which connects the islands of Samar and Leyte.
The San Juanico Bridge, constructed in 1969 during President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.'s administration, spans 2.16 kilometers and remains a crucial economic and transport route in Eastern Visayas. Due to concerns over its load-bearing capacity, a three-ton weight limit has been enforced.
Immediate retrofitting efforts are being conducted on segments of the San Juanico Bridge identified as deteriorated and hazardous for heavy loads. Bonoan emphasized the urgency of these repairs and mentioned ongoing coordination with local governments, the Philippine Ports Authority, and the Philippine National Police to manage traffic.
Passengers crossing the bridge are currently required to transfer between buses at each end, with shuttle services provided free of charge for their convenience. The Philippine Ports Authority is also developing alternative routes from Luzon to Leyte to ensure safe access for motorists.
Bonoan indicated that the load limit on the San Juanico Bridge might increase to a maximum of 10 tons by the last quarter of 2025 upon completion of the retrofitting. Efforts are being made to repair deteriorated sections of the bridge approaches, which could allow for an increased load limit within the year.
