Marina issues special permits to Samar, Leyte vessels

MANILA, Philippines — With the rehabilitation of San Juanico Bridge, the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) granted a 30-day special permit to eight vessels to transport people and goods between Calbayog City in Samar and Ormoc City in Leyte.

In a statement, Marina said it gave special permits for seven landing craft tank or LCT vessels and one roll-on, roll-off passenger ship to ply the route and strengthen the transport connectivity in the area.

Cheryl Pascua, Marina chief for Eastern Visayas, said other shipping operators are seeking special permits to service the routes during the bridge rehabilitation.

House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan called for enhanced coordination among government agencies and local authorities to ease disruptions caused by the bridge restrictions.

“Given the significance of San Juanico Bridge as a critical link between Samar and Leyte, it is vital that all concerned agencies work together seamlessly to ensure that contingency measures are well-planned and effectively communicated,” Libanan said.

The Department of Public Works and Highways imposed a three-ton gross vehicle weight limit on the bridge starting May 15 for repairs and to address other structural concerns.

San Juanico Bridge serves as the only land route connecting the islands of Samar and Leyte, making the weight restriction a major logistical challenge.

As a result, heavy vehicles have been forced to use roll-on/roll-off ferry services, resulting in increased costs, delays and inconvenience for commuters, small businesses and regional industries.