Alternate bridge proposed to address Biliran connectivity issues

By David Vera

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is planning the construction of an alternate bridge to connect Biliran province to mainland Leyte, aiming to address the limitations and risks posed by the aging Biliran Bridge.

Irwin Antonio, chief of the DPWH Biliran District Engineering Office, confirmed on Thursday that the proposal for a new bridge had been under consideration prior to the recent viral video showing the existing bridge swaying.

“This bridge serves as the sole access point to Biliran province. The construction of an alternative bridge is now being studied, including the factors affecting the current structure. Funding for the new bridge will follow this assessment,” Antonio said in a phone interview.

Antonio noted that a PHP500 million budget for the project was proposed in 2021 for the 2022 appropriation but was not approved. The DPWH continues to push for the construction of a parallel bridge to improve connectivity and mitigate future risks.

The proposed twin bridge is designed to function as an alternate route and will increase the carrying capacity by adding lanes and tonnage support for traffic. Discussions surrounding the project were reignited in late December after videos showed the bridge visibly swaying.

Since December 23, restrictions have been imposed on the Biliran Bridge, prohibiting heavy vehicles, including trucks carrying food supplies and fuel, from crossing. Only light vehicles, such as passenger vans and SUVs, are currently permitted.

A December 24 inspection conducted by DPWH engineers identified defective components under the bridge deck slab, including corroded steel stringers, loose nuts and bolts, and damaged steel cross bracings. Antonio attributed the structural issues to the bridge’s age, exposure to sea breeze, and vibrations caused by moving and wind loads.

Repairs to the Leyte side of the bridge began on December 27, with DPWH recommending the use of barges to transport cargo trucks and fuel tankers in the meantime.

The Biliran Bridge, constructed in 1976, serves as the only land link between the island province and mainland Leyte. The PHP50 million repairs conducted in 2022 were unrelated to the current issues, according to the DPWH.

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