Manila: Actual construction of the PHP20.2 billion Second San Juanico Bridge (SSJB) project will begin in 2029, according to the updated timeline presented by the Regional Development Council. Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Eastern Visayas Regional Director Meylene Rosales said Tuesday that the actual construction of the foreign-funded project will take some time to start. Approval of the project by the Economic Development Council (EDC) and loan signing are anticipated this year.
According to Philippines News Agency, the SSJB Project will undergo a detailed engineering design phase lasting over a year, with civil works expected to begin in 2029 and span approximately 32 months. The project scope includes the construction of a new bridge and its approach roads, along with operations and maintenance facilities. 'The project will be funded through PHP16.86 billion loan from JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) and PHP3.4 billion counterpart from the Philippine government,' Rosales said in a press briefing.
Although repairs to the existing San Juanico Bridge are not included in this project's scope, a detailed inspection and structural assessment will be conducted during the design phase, and urgent repairs will be prioritized based on consultant recommendations. The Department of Public Works and Highways earlier reported that the bridge's design will incorporate advanced Japanese technologies to ensure long-term reliability and operational efficiency.
Key innovations feature steel that extends paint life to improve durability and lower maintenance needs, composite slab technology that reduces construction time and simplifies upkeep, and seismic isolation bearings to boost earthquake resistance. The proposed SSJB will be a two-lane steel arch bridge with truss elements in its main span, complemented by girder sections supported by multiple columns. It will connect San Isidro village in Tacloban City to San Juan village in Sta. Rita, Samar. The new bridge will be located just a few meters from the existing one.
