BORONGAN CITY — Eastern Samar Lone District Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales is pushing for possible restrictions on heavy trucks traversing the province’s national highways following a reported surge in large vehicle traffic that is accelerating road deterioration.

Gonzales raised concern after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)–Eastern Samar District Engineering Office confirmed an increase in truck volume in the province. The spike came after load limits were imposed on the Calbiga Bridge in Samar, prompting heavy vehicles to reroute through Eastern Samar.

The lawmaker said key highway sections — including Wright–Taft, Taft–Borongan, Borongan–Buenavista, and Buenavista–Lawaan — are now experiencing faster wear and tear due to the continuous passage of 10-wheelers and trailer trucks.

He stressed that prolonged heavy vehicle use, combined with persistent rainfall, has worsened pothole formation and road surface damage, posing risks to motorists and increasing maintenance costs.

“Preventive measures are necessary before the damage becomes irreversible,” Gonzales said, noting that road rehabilitation requires substantial government funding.

LACK OF WEIGHBRIDGES A MAJOR HURDLE

DPWH–Eastern Samar DEO OIC District Engineer Jehela Roxas said implementing weight restrictions would require close coordination with local government units and the Department of Transportation.

Roxas cited the absence of weighbridges in Taft, Arteche, and Lawaan as a major challenge in monitoring truck loads and enforcing possible restrictions.

Without proper weighing facilities, authorities face difficulty in determining whether vehicles are exceeding allowable limits.

BALANCING PROTECTION AND COMMERCE

Gonzales clarified that the proposal is not meant to disrupt commerce but to protect critical infrastructure while maintaining efficient transport and trade.

Eastern Samar plays a key role in regional connectivity, especially following traffic adjustments caused by restrictions in neighboring areas.

The congressman emphasized the need for long-term solutions, including infrastructure reinforcement and improved monitoring systems, to ensure that national highways remain safe and serviceable.

Authorities are continuing to study policy options to protect the province’s roads while ensuring that economic activities and supply chains remain uninterrupted.

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