Following a significant earthquake of magnitude 5.8 on January 23, 2025, the Liloan Bridge in Southern Leyte, a crucial link between Luzon and Mindanao, has been subjected to stringent load restrictions by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The earthquake caused a noticeable gap in the bridge’s steel expansion joint, leading to the DPWH’s decision to limit access to the bridge.
Lord Byron Torrecarion, the Regional Director of the Office of Civil Defense, announced during a press briefing that the bridge is partially closed, with a strict 10-ton weight limit enforced to ensure safety. This measure is in place until necessary repairs can be completed.
Southern Leyte’s 2nd district Representative, Christopherson Yap, revealed plans for a new bridge to replace the aging 47-year-old structure. He emphasized the bridge’s importance as a primary route for transporting goods between Mindanao and Luzon. The proposed new bridge, estimated to cost around PHP5.5 billion, will span the Panaon Strait, connecting Panaon Island to Leyte Island. The project includes a 230-meter cable-stayed main bridge, a 146-meter approach bridge, and a 345-meter approach road, facilitating access to Liloan and Benit ports for regular Southern Leyte-Surigao trips.
In addition to the bridge, the DPWH reported that nine sections of the national highway in Liloan, San Francisco, and San Ricardo have also been affected, with limited access due to rockfall and cracks. The earthquake, which occurred at 7:39 a.m. on Thursday, was centered 10.01 km southeast of San Francisco and had a depth of 14 km.