BASEY, Samar, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Office VIII has imposed today (May 15, 2025) a temporary 3-metric ton gross vehicle weight limit on the iconic San Juanico Bridge, effective immediately, following a structural integrity assessment.
This measure, announced in a public advisory issued at 9:00 AM today, stems from findings in a recent evaluation and a directive from DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan dated May 8. The decision was further reinforced during an inter-agency coordination meeting held on May 14.
Only small vehicles weighing 3 tons or below are permitted to cross the bridge. These vehicles must strictly follow traffic control instructions, proceed one at a time, and drive along the centerline to ensure even weight distribution.
The DPWH emphasized that the weight restriction is a precautionary safety measure while essential repair and maintenance work is underway.
To maintain connectivity across the region, vehicles exceeding the weight limit are advised to use roll-on/roll-off (RORO) vessels. Coordination with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is encouraged for access to the following RORO ports:
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Tacloban Port
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Calbayog Port
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Catbalogan Port
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Biliran Port
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Ormoc Port
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Manguinoo Port (Calbayog, Samar)
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Hilongos Port
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Maasin Port
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Naval Port
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Palompon Port
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Calubian Port
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Villaba Port
Authorities ask for the public’s patience and cooperation as they work to preserve the integrity of the San Juanico Bridge—an essential link between the islands of Leyte and Samar—and ensure the safety of all road users.
For further updates, motorists are urged to monitor official channels of DPWH Region VIII and the PPA. | via Ricky Bautista
