The local government has placed the island province of Biliran under a state of calamity amid safety concerns over its primary bridge to the mainland of Leyte.
In a four-page resolution declaring the state of calamity, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on Friday authorized the provincial government and concerned agencies to tap calamity funds as damage has been found on parts of the Biliran Bridge, GMA News reported.
The report said the declaration seeks to implement price control measures to stabilize the cost of goods, services and commodities; assist affected sectors including those in trade and logistics; and implement immediate repairs and enhancements to alternative transportation routes.
“Whereas, declaring a state of calamity will enable the Provincial Government to implement measures to stabilize the prices of goods and essential commodities, ensure the uninterrupted delivery of goods and services, and mobilize resources to mitigate the adverse effects of the incident,” the document read.
Also in the resolution, the Sanggunian will formally ask the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and other national government agencies “to address the structural and economic issues” arising from the bridge’s status. A copy of the resolution will be submitted to the Office of the President.
A provincial task force on the Biliran Bridge has also been designated.
Ahead of Christmas Day, heavy equipment vehicles were temporarily prohibited from traversing Biliran Bridge due to its unusual swinging.
Video on 24 Oras on Monday showed wave-like movements on the bridge, while steel bars could be seen moving.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan said the swinging of Biliran Bridge, constructed in 1975 nearly 50 years ago, “has raised concerns about its structural integrity and safety.”