Calbiga: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has increased the load capacity of Calbiga Bridge to 30 tons following the substantial completion of a PHP34-million bridge-strengthening project.

According to Philippines News Agency, under the revised guidelines, cargo trucks weighing up to 15 tons may now cross the bridge in both directions, while vehicles weighing between 15 and 30 tons may pass on a one-way basis from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. "Through shoring, we are able to build temporary support structures. This eliminates the need for long detours, thereby reducing travel time and costs and enabling faster delivery of goods and services," DPWH Eastern Visayas Regional Director Edgar Tabacon said.

The strengthening project began last May 28, 2026, and is scheduled for completion on Aug. 25. Tabacon clarified that the shoring works are only a temporary measure, as the agency is seeking PHP140 million for the bridge's retrofitting and repair. The proposed funding will cover rehabilitation of critical components along the Maharlika Highway, including the expansion joint at Abutment 1, the damaged bearing and restraint steel bed at Pier 1, and the corroded bottom flanges of the girders at Span 1.

DPWH is pushing for the PHP140-million project to be funded either through this year's Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund or under the 2027 national budget. On Oct. 27, 2025, the agency imposed a 15-ton load limit and prohibited two-way traffic for large vehicles after an inspection revealed structural concerns, including corrosion and section loss in railings and a loose connection in an additional girder. Built more than 50 years ago, the bridge suffered damage from decades of service and repeated overloading.