The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will build a PHP500-million bridge parallel to the deteriorating Biliran Bridge that connects the island province to Leyte Island.

DPWH Biliran district engineering office chief Ferdinand Briones on Thursday said the proposed bridge will be constructed next to the existing old Biliran Bridge. The old bridge designed and built in 1976, can no longer be used by heavy vehicles.

“The redundant structure such as parallel or twin bridge will not only provide an alternate route but also augment the carrying capacity by effectively adding more tonnage and lanes for traffic,” Briones said in a statement.

The PHP500-million outlay for the new bridge is already included in the 2022 regular budget.

The Bridges Management Cluster – Unified Project Management Office of DPWH main office has already conducted site validation of the proposed bridge on March 25.

The Biliran Bridge is considered a major link of the province not only to nearby Leyte but to other parts of the country as well. (PNA)