The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has unveiled plans to construct a second San Juanico Bridge to maintain connectivity between Samar and Leyte during the ongoing rehabilitation of the original 52-year-old structure in the Philippines. The new bridge, projected to span 2,600 meters, is expected to have its detailed engineering design completed by 2026.
Currently, the DPWH is limiting the weight of vehicles using the existing bridge to under three tons due to structural concerns. This restriction is part of a two-year rehabilitation effort. Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan noted that efforts are underway to raise the bridge’s load capacity to 10 tons by the end of the year to minimise disruptions in the delivery of goods and essential supplies. To further ease transportation, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is exploring alternative logistics routes between Luzon and Leyte that bypass the San Juanico crossing.