The government in the Philippines is planning to build a brand new bridge to replace the old San Juanico Bridge. This was announced by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Wednesday. The San Juanico Bridge is very famous because it connects two important places: Samar and Leyte. But guess what? The bridge is already 52 years old!
Because the bridge has been standing for more than half a century, the government knows it will need some big repairs soon. In fact, they expect that the bridge will have to close down sometimes over the next few years to fix it. This is why the government decided it’s better to build a new bridge nearby.
Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan explained in a news briefing at the Palace that building a new bridge next to the old one is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s plan. The new bridge will be longer and stronger, making it safer for everyone who travels there.
Here’s the exciting part — the money to build this new bridge will come from the Japanese government! This shows that Japan is helping the Philippines with this important project.
Right now, engineers are working hard to design the new bridge carefully. They hope to finish all the detailed designs by the year 2026. Once the designs are ready, the construction work will start right away.
This new bridge will be one of the biggest and most important projects during President Marcos Jr.’s time in office. It will help many people travel more easily and safely between Samar and Leyte for many years to come!
