Biliran under state of calamity as swinging bridge affects trade, transport

The island-province of Biliran has been placed under a state of calamity amid safety concerns over its primary bridge to the mainland of Leyte.

In a four-page resolution declaring the state of calamity, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on Friday authorized the provincial government and concerned agencies to tap calamity funds as damage has been found on parts of the Biliran Bridge.

The declaration seeks to implement price control measures to stabilize the cost of goods, services and commodities; assist affected sectors including those in trade and logistics; and implement immediate repairs and enhancements to alternative transportation routes.

"Whereas, declaring a state of calamity will enable the Provincial Government to implement measures to stabilize the prices of goods and essential commodities, ensure the uninterrupted delivery of goods and services, and mobilize resources to mitigate the adverse effects of the incident," the document read.

Also in the resolution, the Sanggunian will formally ask the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and other national government agencies "to address the structural and economic issues" arising from the bridge's status. A copy of the resolution will be submitted to the Office of the President.

A provincial task force on the Biliran Bridge has also been designated.

Ahead of Christmas Day, heavy equipment vehicles were temporarily prohibited from traversing Biliran Bridge due to its unusual swinging.

Video on 24 Oras on Monday showed wave-like movements on the bridge, while steel bars could be seen moving.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan said the swinging of Biliran Bridge, constructed in 1975 nearly 50 years ago, "has raised concerns about its structural integrity and safety."

"The restriction of heavy vehicles on the Biliran Bridge is causing significant disruptions in the transportation of goods and essential supplies, adversely affecting the local economy and leading to price increases of goods and services and potential inflationary pressures within the province," the resolution read.

Damage on bridge components

According to the resolution, technical assessment conducted by the DPWH Biliran District Engineering Office and DPWH Regional Office in Eastern Visayas found damage on bridge components under the deck slab. These include the bridge stringers, steel cross bracing, build up sections, as well as loose nuts and bolts.

"These damages were attributed to corrosion, exposure to saltwater, and the continuous daily moving loads, while the bearing plates and bridge deck slab were assessed to be in fair condition," the document read.

The resolution also cited the DPWH's recommendations, namely:

• transportation via barge to facilitate the heavy influx of cargo trucks carrying goods, perishable products, and fuel tankers
• major repair/ replacement of damaged components
• light vehicles still allowed to pass the bridge one at a time

— VDV, GMA Integrated News