Seven billion pesos. That’s how the total repairs for the retrofitting of the nearly 50-year-old San Juanico Bridge is rumored to cost, in sum.
In a region where the iconic bridge has become a literal lifeline for its economy and society, the reported total cost of repairing the aging bridge is a monstrosity that demands a reasonable explanation.
Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez has expressed concern about the lack of transparency surrounding the repairs, calling for an expert review and public disclosure of the bridge’s actual condition.
This, as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) claimed that the total costs to retrofit the bridge would only cost over P1 billion.
“The public deserves to know the extent of the damage and whether the escalating repair costs—rumored to reach P7 billion—are justified,” Romualdez stated.
The original P1 billion tab was taken from the revised plan mapped by Angel Lazaro & Associates International, the consultant DPWH has hired to assess the total costs of repairing the bridge.
The agency initially planned to raise the load capacity of the bridge to 12 tons by December from the three-ton load restrictions imposed since May 15.
However, the DPWH has now reportedly decided to work towards restoring the bridge's original 33-ton load capacity.
Japanese expertise
Councilor Brian "Yan-Yan" Granados, on the other hand, urged the DPWH to engage Japanese contractors for the rehabilitation of the bridge.
To recall, the bridge, which was built during the time of former President Ferdinand Marcos, Sr., was financed by a P154-million loan from the Japan Overseas Technical Cooperation Agency (OTCA), the predecessor of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
"Given that the estimated budget for the repair is more or less than 7 billion pesos and that the bridge was originally constructed by Japanese contractors, it would be ideal for the same country known for its familiarity with the structure to handle its rehabilitation," Granados said in a social media statement.
Ports hurriedly upgraded
In response to severe structural issues that have rendered the San Juanico Bridge nearly unusable, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has committed over ₱400 million to upgrade and expand key ports in Leyte and Samar.
This effort aims to mitigate transport disruptions and maintain vital economic connections between the two provinces.
The San Juanico Bridge—spanning 2.16 kilometers and serving as a crucial link between Leyte and Samar—has been placed under a strict three-ton weight limit since May due to structural deterioration.
This restriction has brought regional logistics to a near standstill, stranding vehicles and disrupting the flow of essential goods like food, fuel, and medical supplies.
In response, PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago announced that ₱410 million from the agency’s Corporate Operating Budget has been allocated to modernize strategic port facilities in the region.
“The expansion and modernization of these ports are critical to mitigating the impacts of the San Juanico Bridge restrictions,” Santiago said.
“These efforts will ensure uninterrupted maritime operations and support the long-term economic resilience of Eastern Visayas.”
A key focus is the municipal fishing port in Amandayehan, Basey, Samar, located near Tacloban City. With ₱100 million allotted for dredging works and another ₱200 million for infrastructure expansion, the port is expected to accommodate increased maritime traffic.
Additionally, ₱100 million will be spent on installing 14 navigation buoys to enhance safety during inclement weather and nighttime operations
The local government of Basey is set to formally turn over the Amandayehan Port to the PPA before the end of the year, clearing the way for full-scale development.
State of calamity
To expedite recovery efforts, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued Proclamation No. 920, placing the entire Eastern Visayas region under a state of calamity effective June 5.
This declaration allows national and local governments to accelerate funding, procurement, and repair works on the bridge.
“There is an urgent need to ensure the timely delivery of essential goods and services and restore regional mobility,” Marcos said, ordering the DPWH to coordinate with local government units for rapid action.
At present, maritime transport between Calbayog, Samar, and Ormoc City remains a vital alternative.
The PPA emphasized that the port upgrades will not only address the current crisis but provide long-term benefits to regional trade and connectivity.
As both bridge rehabilitation and port development progress, government agencies vow to maintain collaboration and minimize disruptions.
“This is a holistic approach to overcoming the transportation crisis in Leyte and Samar,” Santiago concluded.
“The steps we take today will shape the region’s economic recovery for years to come.”
(With report by Joyce Kahano-Alpino)
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