The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said Tuesday that traffic and cargo movement in Eastern Visayas have returned to normal following the easing of weight restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge.
During the bridge restrictions from May to December 2025, the PPA activated the Port of Amandayehan in Basey, Samar as alternative route to ease congestion at Tacloban Port. The agency invested more than ₱400 million for dredging, port expansion, and navigational aids to support the operation.
From June to November 2025, the alternative ports handled 2,632 ship calls and moved 7,256 rolling cargoes. At peak operations, up to 800 trucks were transported daily through the Tacloban–Amandayehan route.
As of December 29, 2025, traffic queues at the Tacloban Bypass Road and Amandayehan Port have been cleared. This followed the Department of Public Works and Highways’ decision to allow vehicles with up to a 15-ton gross weight to cross the San Juanico Bridge starting December 12.
The PPA said congestion earlier disrupted the delivery of goods in Leyte and Samar, prompting the national government to order the creation of an alternative transport route. The interim port operations were carried out with the help of several agencies and local governments, alongside organized truck queuing and 24-hour port operations.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago said the restored traffic flow has improved logistics efficiency, reduced delays for cargo and perishable goods, and helped stabilize economic activity in Eastern Visayas.
The PPA said it will continue upgrading ports and working with partner agencies to ensure reliable and resilient transport systems nationwide.
