In a decisive move to address the emerging logistical crisis caused by the newly enforced weight limit restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge, the Municipal Government of Guiuan, Eastern Samar launched a coordinated response to ensure the continued flow of goods and services into the municipality and surrounding areas.
The San Juanico Bridge, a critical infrastructure linking the islands of Samar and Leyte, has recently implemented stricter weight limit restrictions as a precautionary measure due to structural assessments indicating possible safety concerns. These restrictions have significantly disrupted the movement of cargo trucks and heavy vehicles, directly affecting the delivery of essential commodities, agricultural produce, and commercial goods from Tacloban City and other Leyte provinces to Guiuan and the rest of Samar Island.
Recognizing the urgent need for a coordinated and proactive approach, Hon. Annaliza P. Gonzales-Kwan, Municipal Mayor of Guiuan, issued Executive Order No. 05-37, Series of 2025, officially establishing the Guiuan Task Force San Juanico Bridge. The Task Force is designed to serve as a crisis response unit to address the multidimensional impacts of the transport restrictions.
Multi-Sectoral Composition
The Guiuan Task Force San Juanico Bridge is composed of representatives from key national government agencies and local departments, including:
- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
- Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)
- Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)
- Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)
- Philippine National Police (PNP)
This inter-agency collaboration underscores the LGU’s commitment to implement a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach in mitigating the crisis.
Committee-Based Structure
To streamline efforts and maximize efficiency, the Task Force has been organized into several specialized committees:
- Transportation Committee – Coordinates alternative transport routes and logistics support, including the possible use of roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ferry systems.
- Agriculture Committee – Monitors the movement of local produce and ensures continued supply chain integrity for farm goods. Monitor the prices of farm products in the market.
- Basic Goods and Prime Commodities Committee – Ensures the stable availability and regulated pricing of essential goods.
- Health Committee – Oversees the uninterrupted delivery of medical supplies and health services to affected areas.
- Public Information Committee – Disseminates accurate and timely updates to the public regarding transportation schedules, supply chains, and support programs.
- Tourism Committee – Addresses the implications of the disruption on local tourism and coordinates contingency measures.
- Operations Center – Serves as the central hub for monitoring, coordination, and rapid decision-making.
Immediate Objectives
The primary goal of the Guiuan Task Force San Juanico Bridge is to ensure the resilience of Guiuan’s economic and public service systems amidst the current transport bottlenecks. Immediate tasks include identifying alternative maritime and land routes, coordinating with ferry operators for inter-island cargo movement.
In a statement, Mayor Gonzales-Kwan emphasized the urgency of the matter:
“We are facing a unique challenge that tests the resilience of our supply chains and public systems. The creation of the Task Force is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to serve our people, protect their access to basic needs, and keep our local economy running amidst these difficulties.”
Looking Ahead
As the weight restriction remains in effect pending structural rehabilitation and safety assurance of the San Juanico Bridge, the LGU of Guiuan, through its Task Force, continues to work closely with regional partners and stakeholders to formulate long-term solutions.
The situation remains dynamic, but with the active involvement of all sectors and clear leadership from the LGU, Guiuan is positioning itself to navigate the crisis with determination and unity.
For further updates, residents and stakeholders are advised to follow official announcements from the Guiuan Public Information Office.