The Tacloban City Council declared a state of emergency due to restricted access to the San Juanico Bridge, which connects the islands of Samar and Leyte in Eastern Visayas, as the structure awaits scheduled repairs.
In a statement from the city’s information office, the declaration aims to expedite the mobilization of necessary resources and safeguard public safety.
“With restricted access to San Juanico, the main gateway in and out of Tacloban, the city is facing serious concerns related to economic flow, emergency response, and supply chain delays,” the Thursday statement read.
It added, “This declaration allows the local government to act faster, allocate emergency funds, and coordinate with national agencies for support.”
San Juanico Bridge, a key transport route for goods, medical supplies, and essential travel, has faced restricted access in recent days, sparking concerns over possible economic disruptions and delays in emergency response.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that approximately P7 billion is required for the repair and rehabilitation of the San Juanico Bridge due to concerns about its structural integrity.
“The estimated cost of repair and rehabilitation by the DPWH amounts to P7 billion, and any delay in fund release would further escalate the crisis,” the NDRRMC said in a resolution dated May 25.
It estimates that restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge could lead to monthly economic losses of up to P600 million, as the bridge accommodates approximately 14,000 vehicles daily.
“The abrupt imposition of restrictions has stranded more than 200 vehicles and is projected to result in monthly economic losses ranging from P300 million and P600 million,” the NDRRMC said.
As this developed, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has raised concern over the temporary closure of the San Juanico Bridge, warning of its immediate impact on commerce, mobility, and the economy of Eastern Visayas.
According to PCCI president Enunina Mangio, the closure has already caused severe logistical delays, higher transport costs, disrupted worker commutes, and reduced sales for small businesses.
Some firms reported losses of up to 30 percent in just the first week, she said.
While supporting the government’s plan to rehabilitate the bridge, the PCCI is urging immediate measures to ease the economic impact.
These include activating or repairing the Tacloban–Catbalogan and Tacloban–Calbayog RORO ramps, subsidizing barge charters, temporarily waiving port fees for essential shipments, and launching a digital barge booking system to reduce delays.
The chamber also called for the appointment of a San Juanico rehabilitation czar to coordinate efforts, regular updates on repair timelines, and safeguards against fare hikes.
Moreover, the business group is floating the idea of possible tax relief for affected small businesses and suggesting a phased reopening for light vehicles and deliveries.
