San juanico: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office has confirmed that the iconic San Juanico Bridge will officially reopen to vehicles weighing up to 15 tons on December 12, following a successful dry run. The dry run, held from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, was part of the final preparations to ensure the bridge's readiness for increased vehicle loads. Throughout the five-hour simulation, two-way traffic was allowed, and motorists were instructed to maintain a 30 kph speed limit as engineers assessed traffic flow and bridge responses.

According to Philippines News Agency, the test run provided vital data supporting the safe implementation of the upgraded load capacity. The reopening marks a significant milestone in ongoing structural improvement and monitoring efforts for the landmark connecting Leyte and Samar. With the bridge set to accommodate heavier vehicles starting December 12, the DPWH is urging motorists to strictly observe traffic regulations and speed limits to maintain safety and efficiency once the new policy takes effect.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the expedited retrofitting of the San Juanico Bridge, increasing its load capacity from the current 3 tons to between 12 and 15 tons by December this year. Due to bridge foundation deterioration, the DPWH has been imposing a 3-ton load limit in crossing the bridge since May 15, 2025, which has caused logistical hurdles in Leyte and Samar as trucks and buses have been barred from crossing.

Several ports in the islands of Leyte and Samar have been opened as alternative roll-on, roll-off routes for cargo trucks. With a length of 2.16 kilometers, the San Juanico Bridge is the longest bridge along the Pan-Philippine Highway, connecting Luzon and Mindanao. The bridge was constructed from 1969 to 1973.