CALBIGA, Samar — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has announced earlier the imposition of a 15-ton Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) limit on the Calbiga Bridge along the Maharlika Highway in Samar province, that took effect last October 27, 2025, following findings of structural deterioration that raised serious safety concerns.
According to the DPWH–Samar 2nd District Engineering Office, a recent technical and load rating assessment revealed several critical issues affecting the bridge, including corrosion of structural components, damaged bearings, and loose girder connections. The assessment further indicated that the bridge now has a reduced load-carrying capacity due to long-term service and repeated instances of overloading.
Built more than 50 years ago, the Calbiga Bridge has long served as a vital link for mobility and trade between Eastern Visayas and Luzon. DPWH officials emphasized that the load restriction is a proactive safety measure aimed at preventing potential bridge failure and protecting motorists.
“The imposition of the weight limit is crucial for public safety. Its purpose is to protect lives, prevent possible bridge failure, and sustain safe connectivity along the Maharlika Highway,” the DPWH said in a statement, while appealing for public cooperation and understanding as rehabilitation plans are being finalized.
To address the deteriorating condition of the bridge, a ₱140 million budget has been proposed for its retrofitting and repair. While awaiting the implementation of rehabilitation works, authorities are enforcing the load limit to minimize further structural stress.
Recognizing the broader economic and logistical impact of the bridge’s condition, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Tacloban–Leyte Inc. and the Philippine Constructors Association, Leyte Chapter, Inc. has recently written to Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho “Icot” L. Petilla in his capacity as Chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) on December 29, 2025. The letter seeks his endorsement to concerned national government agencies and the Office of the President for the immediate rehabilitation and structural upgrading of the Calbiga Bridge.
The appeal underscores the bridge as a critical bottleneck affecting regional connectivity, logistics efficiency, public safety, and overall economic activity in Eastern Visayas.
In the meantime, DPWH has advised motorists, particularly operators of heavy vehicles, to take alternative routes. One option is a longer land route via the San Juanico Bridge, traversing towns in Samar and Eastern Samar en route to Catbalogan City, the provincial capital. Additionally, regular roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) trips are available for big trucks traveling from Ormoc City, Leyte to Calbayog City, Samar. These RoRo routes were opened in May this year following load limit restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge.
Authorities and stakeholders continue to monitor developments closely, stressing that the condition of the Calbiga Bridge has far-reaching implications for transportation, trade, and economic growth in the region. #END #leyteinitiatives #evchub8 #evcommunities
