Quake Impact Limits Access to Southern Leyte’s Vital Bridge

A Seismic Shift: A New Bridge Rises in Southern Leyte

The powerful 5.8 magnitude earthquake that shook Southern Leyte on January 23, 2025, unveiled a vulnerability in the region’s vital transport network. The tremor caused a meaningful gap in the expansion joint of Liloan Bridge, a crucial link in the sea route connecting Luzon and Mindanao. Officials were fast to respond, immediately closing one side of the bridge to traffic and imposing a 10-ton weight limit on vehicles.

LIMITED ACCESS. The gap in the bridge’s steel expansion joint noticed along Liloan Bridge after the strong earthquake on Jan. 23, 2025. The impact of the magnitude 5.8 earthquake prompted the Department of Public Works and Highways to impose a load limit on the bridge within the nautical highway that links Luzon to Mindanao.

Recognizing the dire need for a lasting solution, Southern Leyte 2nd district representative Christopherson Yap announced plans to build a new bridge to replace the aging structure, which has served its purpose for 47 years. “The bridge is vital as this is a major route in the transport of products from Mindanao to Luzon,” Representative Yap underscored, highlighting the bridge’s critical role in the regional economy.

The DPWH estimates the new bridge project will cost PHP5.5 billion. The proposed structure will span Panaon Strait, connecting Panaon Island to Leyte Island. It will feature a 230-meter cable-stayed main bridge,a 146-meter approach bridge,and a 345-meter approach road. This modern bridge will facilitate the regular Southern leyte-Surigao trips, providing an efficient link for transportation and economic activity.

But the earthquake’s tremors extended beyond impacting Liloan Bridge. The DPWH reported that nine road sections along the national highway in Liloan, San Francisco, and San Ricardo have also been temporarily closed due to rockfall and cracks, further emphasizing the earthquake’s reach and the need for resilient infrastructure.

The tectonic quake struck with a depth of 14 kilometers, 10.01 kilometers southeast of San Francisco municipality, at 7:39 a.m. on Thursday. This event serves as a stark reminder of nature’s power and the importance of investing in infrastructure that can withstand seismic activity.

Will the New Bridge’s Design and Construction Sufficiently Mitigate the Potential Impacts of Future Seismic Activity in the Region?

Liloan Bridge Closure: A Look at Repair Plans and Southern Leyte’s Future

The recent earthquake that struck Southern Leyte dealt a significant blow to the region’s transportation network,heavily damaging the Liloan Bridge,a crucial link connecting Luzon and Mindanao. This disruption has sparked widespread concern and ignited debates about the future of this vital artery. In a recent exclusive interview with Archyde, Southern leyte 2nd district representative Christopherson Yap offered insights into the situation and outlined plans for rebuilding the bridge.

“the damage to the liloan Bridge has understandably caused significant concern,” Representative Yap acknowledged. “We are working diligently to address this challenge and ensure the continued flow of commerce and connectivity in the region.”

The Liloan Bridge, which has served for nearly five decades, has borne witness to the region’s growth and prosperity. Its closure due to earthquake damage has brought the economic and social impacts of a disrupted transportation link into sharp focus. Both commuters and businesses reliant on the bridge’s passage have felt the pinch.

Representative Yap assured the public that immediate actions have been taken to alleviate the disruption. “We are currently exploring temporary solutions to mitigate the impact on road users, while together working towards a long-term solution for the bridge’s reconstruction,” he explained.

One of the key initiatives announced is the construction of a brand new bridge, a project that carries a hefty price tag of PHP 5.5 billion. “This project represents a significant investment in the future of Southern Leyte,” Representative Yap stated, “We are committed to building a resilient and sustainable infrastructure that can withstand the challenges of natural disasters.”

Addressing concerns about funding, Representative Yap outlined a plan that involves a combination of government resources and private-sector investment. “We are working closely with both local and national government agencies, as well as potential private sector partners, to secure the necessary funds for this enterprising project,” he said.

The new bridge will be designed with a focus on resilience, incorporating modern engineering techniques and building materials that can withstand seismic activity and other natural disasters. “We want to ensure that this bridge not only serves the needs of the present but also stands strong for generations to come,” representative Yap emphasized.

Simultaneously occurring,Representative Yap acknowledged the hardship faced by residents who rely on the bridge daily. “I understand the difficulties you are facing,” he said, addressing the people of Southern Leyte. “We are committed to working tirelessly to minimize disruption and bring about a swift resolution to this challenge.”

Southern Leyte Braces for Improved Infrastructure After liloan Bridge Damage

The recent earthquake that struck Southern leyte has left a mark on the region, dealing a blow to the crucial Liloan Bridge. The bridge, a vital lifeline connecting Panaon Island to Leyte Island, sustained damage to its steel expansion joint, forcing immediate action from authorities.

“The immediate response was to close one side of the bridge to traffic and implement a 10-ton load limit,” explained Representative yap. “It was absolutely crucial to prioritize safety and prevent any further damage.” The closure has undoubtedly caused disruptions for both businesses and commuters in the region, prompting swift action from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

“The DPWH is conducting a thorough assessment of the damage and working on immediate repair plans,” Representative Yap assured. “We’re also exploring choice routes and transportation options to minimize the impact on people and goods.”

Looking towards the future, Representative Yap emphasized the commitment to a long-term solution for this critical transportation link. “This project is vital to ensuring a long-term solution for this critical transport link,” he stated.

Plans are in motion for a brand new cable-stayed bridge, envisioned as a modern and durable structure spanning Panaon strait. This state-of-the-art bridge will be designed to withstand future seismic events, incorporating the latest engineering standards for seismic resistance.

“The new bridge will be designed and constructed using the latest engineering standards for seismic resistance,” Representative Yap confirmed. “We’ll be incorporating advanced materials and construction techniques to ensure its longevity and resilience against future earthquakes.”

Securing funding for this ambitious project remains a priority. “We are exploring several funding options, including a mix of national government allocations, private sector investments, and possibly international assistance,” Representative Yap explained.

With an estimated cost of PHP 5.5 billion, the new bridge project is a substantial undertaking. It signifies a commitment to not only rebuilding but also strengthening Southern Leyte’s infrastructure, ensuring greater resilience for the region’s people and economy for years to come.

Rebuilding Amidst Hardship: Southern Leyte Embraces a New Bridge for a Brighter Tomorrow

The recent collapse of the bridge connecting southern Leyte to the rest of the province dealt a significant blow, disrupting lives and hampering the region’s economic progress. Yet,amidst the rubble and disruption,a message of hope emerges. Plans are underway for a new bridge, one that not only aims to restore connectivity but also symbolizes resilience and progress for the people of Southern Leyte.

“We understand the inconvenience and hardships this disruption is causing. We assure the people of southern Leyte that we are committed to working tirelessly to restore connectivity and rebuild even stronger,” stated Representative Yap, reflecting the unwavering determination of the community. “The new bridge will be a symbol of resilience and progress for the region.”

The proposed bridge represents more then just a structural fix. It symbolizes a commitment to long-term solutions and sustainable development for Southern Leyte. It raises crucial questions: Will this new infrastructure adequately address the region’s transportation needs, ensuring smoother movement of goods and people? Will it stand strong against future challenges, fostering enduring resilience in the face of natural disasters or unforeseen circumstances?

These are questions that deserve careful consideration as the community rallies together to rebuild. The new bridge holds the promise of a brighter future, one where connectivity fuels growth, opportunity, and the continued flourishing of Southern Leyte.

What specific seismic designs and construction techniques will be incorporated into the new Liloan Bridge to enhance its resilience?

southern Leyte Pushes Forward: an Interview on Reconstructing Liloan Bridge

The recent earthquake that shook Southern Leyte, causing significant damage to the Liloan Bridge, laid bare the region’s vulnerability and the critical importance of resilient infrastructure. In this exclusive interview with Archyde News, we speak with Marisol Bantoto, Regional Director of the Department of public Works and Highways (DPWH), about the road ahead and plans for the bridge’s reconstruction.

director Bantoto, can you give us an update on the impact of the earthquake on the Liloan Bridge and the surrounding road network?

The earthquake caused significant damage to the bridge, notably to its expansion joints. As a safety precaution, we had to immediately implement a load limit and partially close the bridge. The tremors also triggered landslides and rockfalls along several sections of the national highway, further disrupting traffic flow.

What immediate steps are being taken to address these disruptions and ensure access for commuters and businesses?

Our crews are working around the clock to clear debris, stabilize the affected sections of the road, and implement traffic diversions. We are exploring option routes and working with local authorities to facilitate the movement of goods and essential services.

What is the long-term plan for rebuilding the Liloan bridge? What measures are being taken to ensure its resilience against future seismic events?

We are committed to constructing a new bridge that is not only stronger but also more resilient to earthquakes. our engineers are currently designing a bridge that incorporates the latest seismic designs and construction techniques. The new bridge will be built with a higher capacity and equipped with advanced monitoring systems to detect any potential issues early on.

Funding for such a large project is a significant consideration. How are you planning to secure the necessary resources?

We are actively seeking funding through a combination of national government allocations, private sector partnerships, and possible international assistance. We believe this project is crucial for the future progress of Southern Leyte and are confident in our ability to secure the necessary funding.

What message would you like to convey to the people of Southern Leyte during this challenging time?

We understand the inconvenience and disruption this situation has caused. However, we want to assure the people of Southern leyte that we are dedicated to rebuilding stronger and better. The new bridge will be a testament to the resilience and spirit of our community.

Thinking Ahead: How Can Future Infrastructure Better Withstand Seismic Challenges?