San Juanico Bridge reopens to heavier vehicles Dec. 12
SAN Juanico Bridge (Tacloban City Information Office FB)
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office here on Thursday confirmed that the iconic San Juanico Bridge will officially reopen to vehicles weighing up to 15 tons on Friday, following a successful dry run.
The dry run, held from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, was part of the final preparations to ensure the bridge’s readiness for increased vehicle loads.
Throughout the five-hour simulation, two-way traffic was allowed and motorists were instructed to keep within the 30 kph speed limit as engineers assessed traffic flow and bridge responses.
“The test run provided vital data supporting the safe implementation of the upgraded load capacity. The reopening marks a significant milestone in ongoing structural improvement and monitoring efforts for the iconic landmark connecting Leyte and Samar,” the DPWH said in a statement.
With the bridge set to accommodate heavier vehicles starting Dec. 12, the DPWH urged motorists to strictly observe traffic regulations and speed limits to maintain safety and efficiency once the new policy takes effect.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered to expedite the retrofitting of the San Juanico Bridge, increasing its load capacity from the current three tons to 12 to 15 tons by December this year.
Due to bridge foundation deterioration, the DPWH has been imposing a three-ton load limit in crossing the bridge since May 15, 2025. The situation has caused logistical hurdles in Leyte and Samar as trucks and buses have been barred from crossing the bridge.
Several ports in the islands of Leyte and Samar have been opened as alternative roll-on, roll-off routes for cargo trucks.
With a length of 2.16 kilometers, the San Juanico Bridge is the longest bridge on the Pan-Philippine Highway that connects Luzon and Mindanao. The bridge was built from 1969 to 1973. (PNA)