The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has earmarked ₱400 million to modernize and expand the Amandayehan Port in Basey, Samar, positioning it as a strategic alternative route amid transport constraints triggered by new restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge.
The initiative comes just weeks after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) imposed a three-ton weight limit on the bridge — a vital link between Leyte and Samar — causing logistics disruptions. In response, PPA promptly identified Amandayehan Port, due to its proximity to Tacloban Port, as a key node to sustain cargo and passenger movement across the region.
“This ₱410 million investment, sourced from our corporate operating budget, reflects our broader commitment to strengthen inter-island connectivity and drive economic activity in Eastern Visayas,” said PPA general manager Jay Santiago.
The breakdown includes ₱100 million for navigation buoys to boost maritime safety, particularly during poor weather and nighttime operations, another ₱100 million for dredging to enhance port depth and navigability, and ₱200 million for infrastructure upgrades to accommodate higher cargo volumes and vessel traffic.
Policy-wise, the move underscores a shift toward decentralizing critical transport infrastructure and reducing over-reliance on singular routes like the San Juanico Bridge. The PPA is also finalizing the turnover of Amandayehan Port from the local government unit before year-end to streamline future expansion and management efforts.
Officials said the port modernization is not merely a stopgap but part of a long-term strategy for resilient and sustainable transport systems across the Visayas.
