Basey sea route traffic surges due to San Juanico Bridge restrictions

Daily passenger traffic in Basey, Samar has significantly increased to 3,600 people since May 15 due to restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge, prompting travelers to seek alternative sea routes.

The Philippine Coast Guard has increased its presence at the Basey substation to manage the surge in boat traffic between San Antonio village and Tacloban City.

Five passenger vessels now operate every 15 minutes on the new route, carrying 120 to 150 passengers each for a fare of PHP50 per trip.

Truckers are experiencing long queues at roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ports, with some opting for the new sea route for faster transit.

Santa Clara Shipping has introduced a temporary Tacloban-Amandayehan service, although the Samar terminal requires upgrades.

The three-ton load restriction on the San Juanico Bridge, implemented after engineering assessments, is the cause of the heavy traffic on the Leyte approach.

The 15-minute boat crossing is considered more convenient than enduring bridge congestion.

Truckers are being advised to utilize the Calbayog-Ormoc route, with five RoRo vessels having received 30-day special permits for interisland service.

The Office of House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Tingog Party-list are coordinating a multi-agency response to address the transportation disruptions.