NAVAL, Biliran, Philippines — After videos released online showing the 48-year-old Biliran Bridge in northern Leyte swaying and shifting like waves, the bridge is now only accessible by pedestrian and light vehicle. Safety concerns were raised when these posts quickly went viral. Because of the possible hazards, the Eastern Visayas Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) prohibited the usage of the bridge by trucks, passenger buses, and other large vehicles.
“This movement is caused by strong winds and heavy traffic during the holiday season. Passengers on buses must get off before crossing, and people should cross carefully, one at a time,” said a DPWH advisory.
Videos shared online showed the bridge, which connects Biliran to Leyte, swaying. Drivers stopped at both ends of the bridge for safety.
Biliran Representative Gerardo Espina Jr. said he sent one of the videos to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan to request an urgent inspection and plans for fixing the issue. Espina also asked for steps to ensure the safety of motorists and maintain commerce.
The DPWH previously proposed a budget of ₱500 million in 2021 to build a new bridge next to the current one. Built in 1976, the bridge can no longer handle heavy vehicles as before.
DPWH-8 Assistant Director David Adongay stated their inspection found no signs of the bridge moving or swaying. He suggested the viral videos might have been edited to create panic and urged the public to post responsibly.
Despite this, Adongay emphasized the need to control the weight of vehicles crossing the old bridge to ensure safety.
