Luzon-Samar bridge project pushed

MANILA  -Think tank Infrawatch PH is pushing for the immediate construction of the proposed Luzon-Samar bridge to provide additional means of transporting passengers and goods between Luzon and Eastern Visayas.

The infrastructure project is currently being reviewed by the government, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Infrawatch PH convener Terry Ridon said the Luzon-Samar bridge could “start as funding and engineering designs are available.”

“This project leg allows goods and people to travel faster from Luzon island to Eastern Visayas in a shorter amount of time,” he said.

“Currently, only roll-on roll-off ferries have crossed the San Bernardino Strait, carrying passengers and vehicles to and from Allen Port and Matinog Port in Sorsogon,” he added.

Along with this, the Leyte-Mindanao bridge is also undergoing a pre-feasibility study with the assistance from Infrastructure Development Institute Japan.

Public Works and Highways Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain previously said the infrastructure projects would “not just establish a better link between Luzon and some parts of Visayas and Mindanao but it will also provide a permanent solution to the perennial problem of stranding during weather disturbances and port congestion during peak season.”

As this develops, the government is pushing for the construction of the second San Juanico bridge, which is designed to improve transportation between Leyte and Samar.

The priority infrastructure project spanning 1.24 kilometers is estimated to cost P9.17 billion.

It will serve as an alternative to the existing San Juanico bridge, which sees 7,200 vehicles daily, nearing its 10,000-vehicle capacity. By 2030, vehicle volume is projected to breach the capacity.

The 50-year-old bridge underwent P84.7-million rehabilitation last year, which involved tightening of high-tension bolts and painting works on structural steel.