TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region VIII – Leyte 1st District Engineering Office (DEO) has imposed temporary traffic restrictions on Sapiniton Bridge which connects Barangays Libtong and Bahay in San Miguel, Leyte, following reports of excessive vibration and deck deflection observed during vehicle crossings.
In an advisory issued on October 16, 2025, the DPWH said the restrictions are precautionary measures aimed at ensuring public safety and maintaining the bridge’s structural integrity while further inspections and assessments are being conducted.
Effective immediately and until further notice, the following restrictions will be strictly implemented on the bridge: maximum load Limit: 15 tons; crossing speed limit: 20 km/h; and one vehicle allowed to cross at a time.
The DPWH Leyte 1st DEO appealed to motorists, transport operators, and the public for cooperation and understanding, stressing that these measures are temporary and necessary to prevent potential accidents or further structural damage.
“Public safety remains our utmost priority,” the advisory stated, assuring that monitoring and technical evaluation activities are ongoing to determine whether the bridge requires immediate repairs or full-scale rehabilitation.
The Sapiniton Bridge serves as a vital link for residents and motorists traveling between interior barangays of San Miguel and nearby municipalities. It is frequently used by cargo trucks and public utility vehicles transporting goods and passengers to and from Tacloban City and other parts of central Leyte.
The DPWH said a detailed structural assessment will guide the next steps, which may include temporary reinforcement works or full repair recommendations to restore the bridge’s normal capacity.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
