Palace seeks understanding ahead of San Juanico bridge rehab

San Juanico Bridge in 2022. (File Photo By Patrickroque01/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0)

By Darryl John Esguerra, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The rehabilitation of the San Juanico Bridge is necessary to prevent potential accidents, Malacañang said Monday as it appeals for public’s understanding amid potential disturbances in the area due to the ongoing works.

“Tingnan po natin ito sa mas positibong aspeto dahil ito po ay rehabilitation, mas nanaisin po talaga na maiwasan kung anuman maaring idulot ng disgrasya kung ito man ay hindi maayos ng maagap (Let us look at this from a more positive perspective, as this is a rehabilitation. It is better to address potential issues early, rather than risk any accidents that may occur if left unaddressed,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has already placed concerned agencies on heightened alert following the closure of the bridge.

A multi-task force has been activated, and public assistance desks will be set up on both sides of the bridge.

READ: San Juanico Task Group created amid bridge structural safety watch

Additionally, 24-hour patrol units will monitor safety in the area.

Castro said a weighing station will be installed to determine which vehicles can safely pass through the bridge during its partial closure. Only light vehicles will be allowed to cross.

In response to potential disruptions, the DPWH has committed to providing 13 shuttle buses operating 24/7 to assist those affected by the closure.

The buses will help transport passengers, especially as the bridge will only accommodate light vehicles temporarily.

The DPWH is also coordinating with local government units (LGUs) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to facilitate ferry services for affected passengers.

Constructed in 1969 during the administration of President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., the San Juanico Bridge spans 2.16 kilometers and remains a vital economic and transport artery in the Eastern Visayas.