A multi-agency task force has been formed to coordinate safety, traffic, and emergency responses following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to address structural concerns on the 2.16-kilometer San Juanico Bridge, the country’s third longest bridge spanning seawater and linking Leyte and Samar.
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) announced Sunday the rollout of safety protocols, including a 24/7 security patrol, rerouting of heavy vehicles, and a centralized Public Assistance Desk at TINGOG Party-list’s Mega Tent.
Pedestrians are no longer allowed to cross the bridge, with light vehicles and coasters ferrying passengers instead. “Effective today, these measures—including reconnaissance and deployment—are now in effect,” OCD said in a statement.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) confirmed the bridge’s structural damage and imposed a three-ton weight limit.
“Those traversing the bridge must use the centerline, proceeding one at a time,” the DPWH warned, urging motorists to follow traffic marshals on site.
RORO ports across Leyte and Samar are now recommended for heavier cargo trucks.
Repair costs are initially estimated at P300 million to P500 million, according to OCD Administrator Ariel Nepomuceno. “This is a rough estimate—there are no details yet,” he said, adding that the government is considering sourcing funds from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) fund as no allocation has been made by the DPWH.
Business leaders warned of significant losses due to limited access to the vital link.
“The economic losses due to issues with the San Juanico Bridge can be significant,” said Wilson Uy, former president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Tacloban. “A disruption will affect retail and wholesale trade, tourism, and manufacturing reliant on imported materials.” Uy estimates monthly losses between P300 million to P600 million due to delivery delays, spoilage, and rerouting costs.
Officials continue to monitor the situation under Blue Alert, signaling heightened readiness and inter-agency coordination to mitigate further risks and disruptions.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Gov’t activates Task Force San Juanico after PBBM order”