DPWH bans heavy vehicles on Biliran Bridge due to wind concerns

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has temporarily banned heavy equipment vehicles from crossing the Biliran Bridge in Biliran province due to safety concerns.

Videos circulating on social media showed the bridge swaying during strong winds, prompting restrictions that only light vehicles like passenger vans and SUVs can cross starting late Monday.

The DPWH advised that buses must unload passengers before crossing the bridge and travel one vehicle at a time with caution due to holiday traffic volume.

Residents and commuters have expressed frustration over the new restrictions, which affect daily travel and logistics operations.

According to DPWH officials, the swaying is a normal design characteristic of steel bridges built over 50 years ago, but inspections revealed no immediate safety risks.

The provincial government of Biliran is advocating for the construction of an additional bridge to link Leyte and Biliran, along with exploring alternate routes and port passages for heavy vehicles and cargo.