Gov't to build new bridge near San Juanico - DPWH chief

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan on Wednesday announced the government's plan to construct a new bridge adjacent to the existing San Juanico Bridge.

During a Palace press briefing, Bonoan said the new bridge would be about 2.6 kilometers long, stretching longer than the existing bridge.  He added that this will be financed through official development assistance from the Japanese government.
 
“This will be one of the flagship projects under this administration. It is now under detailed engineering design. We hope that the detailed engineering design will be completed by 2026 and the construction will follow immediately,” Bonoan said.

The existing San Juanico Bridge will undergo rehabilitation after a recent assessment raised concerns about its structural integrity.

Authorities are already on blue alert following the enforcement of the vehicle weight limit. A blue alert status means agencies are at a heightened preparedness and alertness.

Built in 1969 and completed in 1973, San Juanico Bridge is the third longest bridge spanning a body of seawater in the Philippines, connecting the islands of Samar and Leyte.

Bonoan had said the present load limits of San Juanico Bridge amid its rehabilitation might be increased in the coming months.—LDF, GMA Integrated News