Tingog wants state of emergency in areas affected by San Juanico repair
San Juanico Bridge, shown in this March 2023 photo, is an iconic 2.1-kilometer span connecting the islands of Leyte and Samar across the San Juanico Strait. Phot by Patrick Roque/ contributor.
MANILA, Philippines — Tingog Party-list has recommended the declaration of a state of emergency for areas affected by the San Juanico Bridge repair, so that local governments can facilitate quick release of funds and logistic actions.
In a statement on Monday, Tingog said that they support the proposed rehabilitation of the San Juanico Bridge — a 1970s era bridge linking the provinces of Samar and Leyte in Eastern Visayas. However, the group said that certain steps must be taken to minimize disruptions in the area.
“Tingog Party-list also expresses its strong support for the proposed P1.7 billion rehabilitation fund for the San Juanico Bridge, as outlined by DPWH. This proposal reflects the scale and urgency of work required to strengthen and future-proof this critical structure,” the group, which is based in Eastern Visayas, said.
READ: San Juanico Bridge rehab aimed at ensuring safety – Palace
“In light of the situation, we reiterate our support for the following key recommendations: Declaration of a state of emergency to enable immediate government action, logistical facilitation, and financial mobilization,” it added.
Recommendations
Aside from a state of emergency, Tingog listed down other recommendations to mitigate the effect of San Juanico Bridge’s repair to transportation and commerce:
- Creation of a Cabinet-level Emergency Response Task Force and a Regional Task Force to lead synchronized, real-time mitigation and recovery efforts
- Establishment of a One-Stop-Shop Permit Center to streamline transport and logistics-related clearances
- Expansion of Ro-Ro operations, regulation of fares and port management, and facilitation of special permits for vessel operators
- Provision of financial support to affected MSMEs, regulation of basic commodity prices, and launch of a region-wide economic impact assessment by DEPDev (Department of Economy, Economy, Planning, and Development) and PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority)
“We remain hopeful that full transport and logistics connectivity will be restored at the soonest possible time. Tingog Party-list will continue to stand with the people of Eastern Visayas — working hand in hand with government, private sector, and civil society partners — to uphold our mission of caring governance, responsive leadership, and concrete service to the region,” it added.
According to Tingog, they have held multi-agency consultative discussions, in partnership with House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez’ office, with different departments including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), Philippine Ports Authority, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
After the meetings, there have been developments like the identification and preparation of additional roll-on, roll-off (Ro-ro) routes, the issuance of additional permits, and the provision of a free-ride service for affected commuters.
Burden of affected
“Since then, Tingog Party-list and the Office of Speaker Martin Romualdez have taken the lead in mobilizing key interventions and coordinating with concerned agencies to ensure public safety, ease the burden on affected commuters and businesses, and work toward the full restoration of transport connectivity,” Tingog said.
READ: Minimum disruption ensured as San Juanico Bridge undergoes repairs
“Key developments include […] collaboration with DPWH and Marina to identify and prepare alternative transport routes and ports. Among these is the Amandayehan Port in Basey, Samar, which is being readied for Ro-Ro operations,” it added.
“The first Ro-Ro vessel to operate in the San Juanico Strait—the LCT Aldain Dowey—has been deployed by Sta. Clara Shipping Corporation. Its deployment is expected to ease the logistical bottleneck caused by the bridge restrictions and facilitate the continued movement of goods and passengers.”
Last May 16, a blue alert status was raised over the Eastern Visayas region after a weight limit was imposed on vehicles passing through the 52-year-old bridge.
The blue alert was based on a previous assessment conducted by the DPWH stating that vehicles weighing more than three tons will be banned from using San Juanico Bridge while it undergoes a two-year rehabilitation worth P900 million.
The Office of Civil Defense has established the San Juanico Task Group (SJTG) to manage security, safety, and operational coordination while repairs are being done. / MR
