CALBAYOG CITY (May 18, 2025) — Calbayog City Mayor Raymund Uy held a press briefing to address public concerns regarding the economic impact of the ongoing rehabilitation of the San Juanico Bridge, a vital economic artery in the region.
Mayor Uy reassured residents that the city’s supply chain remains stable despite disruptions in land transport routes.
“There’s no need to panic. Our essential commodities, including food and fuel, remain unaffected thanks to alternative sourcing and strategic planning,” Uy stated.
Key Points from the Briefing:
Stable Commodity Supply: Calbayog sources most essential goods from Cebu, ensuring continued supply. Local agricultural production is also sufficient to meet the demand for vegetables, pork, chicken, and eggs.
No Price Hike Expected: Since supplies remain steady, the mayor emphasized there is no justification for any increase in the prices of basic goods.
Fuel Supply Under Control: Although fuel transport remains a concern, local dealers have assured stable supply. A barge carrying fuel is set to dock in Calbayog tonight, ensuring continuous replenishment for gasoline stations. There is also a depot in San Isidro, Northern Samar, to help buffer the supply.
Preventive Measures: Mayor Uy announced upcoming meetings with the Price Monitoring Council and the local business community to discuss interventions that could prevent any potential economic strain.
Awaiting Provincial Action: The city is on standby for a possible State of Emergency declaration from the provincial government to curb any unwarranted price surges.
Support for Transport Sector: To protect commuters from possible fare hikes, the city is considering fuel subsidies for transport groups if fuel prices rise.
Alternative Transport Routes: Sea transport operations are being maximized, with RORO vessels at Calbayog and Manguinoo ports ferrying cargo to Ormoc City. Passenger services by Cokaliong and Lite Shipping will commence next week, connecting Calbayog and Cebu via Manguinoo Port.
Traffic Management Measures: CAPOSO is deploying efforts to manage truck congestion in city streets and at the Aguit-itan Fishport area, where cargo trucks await loading onto ROROs.
Mayor Uy ended the presser with a call for calm and cooperation, emphasizing the local government’s commitment to maintaining economic stability amid infrastructure developments. | With Eleen S. Lim
