TACLOBAN CITY – Due to the recent “swinging” incident of the 50-year-old Biliran Bridge, the Department of Public Works and Highways-Biliran District Engineering Office (DPWH-BDEO) has revived its proposal to construct a parallel bridge.

The said PHP500-million project was proposed for inclusion in the 2022 Regular Infrastructure Program but was not funded.

The DPWH Unified Project Management Office (DPWH-UPMO) Bridges Management Cluster shall conduct its implementation when funded.

Meanwhile, the DPWH-BDEO clarified that the previously completed repair of the Biliran Bridge, which amounted to PHP50 million, was independent of and unconnected to the current damages. The repair focused on the asphalt overlay of the entire bridge span, retrofitting through carbon fiber sheets on substructures except the foundation, additional steel plate on the top chord not on the entire span, and repainting and replacement of noted missing bolts. It added that the recent damage observed on the Biliran Bridge is primarily on the areas underneath the bridge deck slab. 

Among the factors that could have caused the wavelike pattern / aero-dynamic flutter is the gustiness frequency of the wind approaches or is in resonance with the combined forces that impacted the bridge such as the moving loads, wind load, and own weight of the bridge.

DPWH-BDEO OIC-District Engineer Irwin Antonio explained that the effect is associated with the reduced stiffness of the bridge due to the age and corroded members of the steel bridge caused by the sea breeze. The bearing plates, however, are in fair condition despite the discovered defects. 

Nevertheless, OIC-DE Antonio assured the public of swift actions and shared that the office will be proposing a project for the repair of the bridge considering that it is the sole link between Leyte and Biliran Islands. “The Biliran Bridge is a vital and one of the most significant structures in the region, which is why our office has noted that a major repair of these defective components is highly recommended, to address this matter with utmost urgency,” Antonio said.

Meanwhile, DPWH-BDEO continues to temporarily restrict heavy vehicles from crossing the bridge to ensure the safety of the public. Only vehicles with a weight of 5 tons are allowed to pass the bridge one at a time and are advised to cross through the center. 

Finally, to manage the high volume of cargo trucks carrying essential goods, perishable items, and fuel tankers to and from the island province, barge transportation has been recommended. (By Marie Tonette Marticio / EV Mail Dec. 30, 2024-Jan. 5, 2025 issue)