Basey: The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has designated PHP400 million towards the modernization and expansion of the Amandayehan Port in Basey, Samar, which serves as the closest wharf for roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) vessels traveling to and from the regional capital. This initiative comes amid the ongoing issues with the San Juanico Bridge.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PPA is determined to upgrade the port utilizing its corporate operating budget. Kahlil Lamigo, the acting manager for Eastern Leyte and Samar, revealed that PHP200 million is allocated for the port's physical expansion, PHP100 million for dredging operations, and another PHP100 million for the installation of navigational buoys. Lamigo emphasized the expansion's goal to accommodate more vessels and cargo, while the navigational aids aim to enhance safe vessel passage, particularly during nighttime.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, during his visit on June 8, mandated the immediate installation of buoys to facilitate extended operating hours at the Amandayehan Port within the week. The PPA is also working on finalizing the transfer of port management from the local government unit by the end of the year to better prepare for the transition and future expanded operations.

Before the San Juanico Bridge's three-ton load limit was enforced in mid-May, the port in Amandayehan village primarily functioned as a fish landing center. Following two weeks of enhancements by the Department of Public Works and Highways, it commenced operations as a RoRo port on June 7. The newly established Amandayehan-Tacloban route complements existing shipping lanes, significantly reducing travel time to 15 to 20 minutes, including loading and unloading. This revised route allows for up to 10 trips within 12 hours, unlike the 13-hour Calbayog-Ormoc route. Shipping companies are prioritizing trucks carrying dangerous, essential, and perishable goods on a first-come, first-served basis.