TACLOBAN CITY – The procurement of materials for the immediate repair of the Biliran Bridge is ongoing following the release of P30 million requested by the Department of Public Works and Highways-Biliran District Engineering Office through DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan.
DPWH-Biliran DEO OIC-DE Irwin Antonio thanked Bonoan for prioritizing the immediate release of funds to repair the bridge to ensure the safety and convenience of the community.
He recognized the consistent follow-ups and support of Biliran Rep. Gerardo Espina Jr., alongside other stakeholders, in facilitating the process.
"We are thankful to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan for his unwavering commitment to secure the necessary funds for this project and ensuring that the procurement process is on track," Antonio said.
Based on the technical assessment conducted on the Biliran Bridge by engineers from the DPWH-Biliran District Engineering Office and DPWH-Regional Office 8 Bridge, the bridge sustained damage on components under the deck slab, particularly on the bridge stringers, steel cross bracing, build-up sections of Spans 4 and 3, and loose nuts and bolts at Span 4.
The provincial government of Biliran, in partnership with the Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (BCCI), has contracted LCT ASC Susan to transport commodities across Biliran River.
BCCI manages the cargo ship operations to guarantee that the initiative remains a non-profit effort, benefiting all residents of Biliran.
Biliran was placed under a state of calamity last Dec. 27 due to the bridge’s potential impact on the local economy.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan said declaring a state of calamity will enable the provincial government to implement measures to stabilize prices of goods and essential commodities, ensure the uninterrupted delivery of goods and services, and mobilize resources to mitigate the adverse effects of the unstable bridge.