President Marcos wants vehicle weight limit on San Juanico Bridge raised

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has ordered officials involved in the rehabilitation of San Juanico Bridge to raise the vehicle weight limit imposed on the structure from three tons to 12 tons by December.

Marcos warned these officials that they would face dismissal from their posts if they fail to raise the vehicle weight limit.

“Based on our schedule, it must be done by December. Before the end of the year, vehicles weighing up to 12 tons must be allowed to pass through the bridge,” Marcos said during the second episode of BBM podcast. “That’s a test. I told them if you fail to finish it, I’ll accept your resignations.”

The 53-year-old bridge, which connects Leyte and Samar, has been closed to all vehicles exceeding three tons since May due to repairs.

Meanwhile, the President’s sister, Sen. Imee Marcos, has drawn flak for criticizing the rehabilitation of San Juanico Bridge.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said that as a senator for  four years, Marcos should have known the budget allotted by the previous administration for the maintenance of the bridge.

The House of Representatives lashed back at the senator for deflecting responsibility over the upkeep of the structure.

House spokesperson Princess Abante reminded Marcos that the House has initiated funding for San Juanico Bridge.

Abante said that senators also have the duty to draft the country’s budget.

Earlier, Marcos downplayed  the government’s efforts to rehabilitate the bridge, saying the budget was only good for repainting.