TACLOBAN CITY — National roads in Eastern Samar are deteriorating faster than expected due to a surge of heavy trucks rerouted from neighboring provinces, prompting local officials to push for funding for weighbridges to curb overloading.
The office of Rep. Sheen Gonzales is coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways – Eastern Samar District Engineering Office to address the issue.
District Engineer Jehela Roxas said the damage became more evident after cargo trucks from Northern Samar began diverting to Eastern Samar routes due to load restrictions at Calbiga Bridge. The rerouting increased heavy vehicle traffic along portions of the Daang Maharlika, accelerating pavement wear and raising safety concerns.
DPWH officials said the lack of weighbridges makes it difficult to determine if trucks are overloaded, as the agency has no police powers to apprehend violators.
To strengthen enforcement, Gonzales’ office and the district engineering office are seeking funds to install weighbridges in strategic areas, in coordination with local government units, to help protect the province’s road infrastructure and ensure safer travel.
(LIZBETH ANN A.ABELLA/ROEL T.AMAZONA)
