Malacañang on Monday assured the public of swift government action to address the ongoing disruptions caused by the rehabilitation of the San Juanico Bridge, a critical infrastructure link between Samar and Leyte.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed relevant agencies to implement measures that will minimize the impact on local residents and businesses. The San Juanico Bridge, which connects the islands of Leyte and Samar, plays a vital role in regional connectivity and commerce in Eastern Visayas.
“This is a necessary rehabilitation to prevent potential accidents if left unaddressed,” Castro said. She added that a blue alert status has been raised, placing concerned agencies on heightened readiness. A multi-agency task force has been activated, and public assistance desks will be set up on both ends of the bridge.
Only light vehicles are currently allowed to cross the bridge for safety reasons. To ease transport disruptions, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has deployed 13 shuttle buses operating 24/7. A vehicle weighing station and 24-hour patrol units will also be established to regulate traffic and monitor safety.
Coordination is ongoing with local government units and the Philippine Ports Authority to provide ferry services as needed for affected passengers.
Meanwhile, TINGOG Party-list and the Office of House Speaker Martin Romualdez have taken a lead role in organizing a coordinated government response. On May 17, they convened a multi-agency consultative meeting involving over 30 national agencies, including the DPWH, MARINA, PPA, LTFRB, DSWD, and the Office of Civil Defense.
TINGOG Party-list emphasized its continued commitment to mitigating the effects of the bridge closure, prioritizing public safety, supporting affected businesses and commuters, and expediting full restoration of transport connectivity.
Malacañang called for public patience, stressing that the rehabilitation is being carried out with long-term safety and regional development in mind.