TACLOBAN CITY — In a move to curb worsening damage to its road network, the provincial government of Leyte has approved an ordinance regulating the use of provincial roads by heavily loaded trucks, particularly those hauling sand and gravel materials.
The ordinance, authored by Leyte 5th District Board Member Carlo Loreto, was approved during the Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s first regular session for 2026 on Tuesday, January 13. It seeks to protect provincial infrastructure and ensure public safety in line with the mandate of Republic Act No. 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991.
Loreto cited a report from the Provincial Engineering Office showing that Leyte has around 594 kilometers of provincial roads, about 85 percent of which are already paved, while the remaining sections are gravel roads. Many of these roads, he said, have suffered severe damage due to the continued passage of overloaded dump trucks, particularly those operated by sand and gravel concessionaires.
The lawmaker warned that deteriorating roads disrupt trade, commerce, and the movement of people and goods across the province.
“It is incumbent upon us to protect the resources and property of the province of Leyte for the enjoyment of everybody and the promotion of trade and commerce,” Loreto said.
Leyte 1st District Board Member Ronan Christian Reposar underscored the importance of well-maintained roads, especially during calamities and disasters, noting that good road conditions are crucial for the rapid delivery of humanitarian aid and emergency response.
Under the ordinance, only two-axle or six-wheeler trucks with a gross vehicle weight not exceeding 20,000 kilograms and loaded with quarry, sand, or gravel materials are allowed to use provincial roads in Leyte.
Violators face a P5,000 administrative fine per offense, impoundment of the vehicle until cleared by the Governor’s Office, and possible cancellation of sand and gravel permits after due process.
Cancellation proceedings may be initiated by deputized officers regardless of whether the permit was issued by the provincial government or the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
To ensure enforcement, the ordinance deputizes the Leyte Police Provincial Office, city and municipal police units, barangay officials, local treasurers, and the Provincial Sand and Gravel Task Force.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
