The Port Management Office (PMO) of Western Leyte/Biliran actively participated in an emergency meeting convened by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Ormoc City yesterday to proactively address potential traffic congestion arising from the temporary closure of the San Juanico Bridge.
A key point of discussion centered on the anticipated surge in transport trucks and rolling cargoes traversing Ormoc City. This increase is a direct consequence of ALD Sea Transport’s newly established route to the private port of GGC Group Inc. in Calbayog, Samar, which is now diverting traffic through Ormoc.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the PMO and the LGU swiftly reached an agreement on the immediate allocation of a designated truck staging area situated outside the City Proper. This measure aims to prevent the build-up of traffic and eliminate illegal truck parking within the city. Furthermore, the LGU has appealed to the private sector, through the Ormoc Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ORCHAM), to consider temporarily offering vacant lots owned by businesses outside the city as additional parking spaces for trucks.
To ensure a streamlined flow of traffic, stringent guidelines will be implemented for trucks accessing the private port of GGC Group, Inc. Only trucks with confirmed trips, complete and verified paperwork, and adherence to the designated route will be granted entry. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has also pledged to communicate with shipping lines to optimize their booking and cargo loading systems for rolling cargoes.
In a related announcement, the PPA PMO Western Leyte/Biliran clarified that the Baseport of Ormoc currently does not offer any shipping routes to Matnog or any other parts of Samar. The port continues its regular operations, providing essential services for trips to Cebu.
The collaborative efforts between the PMO Western Leyte/Biliran, the LGU of Ormoc City, and the private sector underscore a commitment to mitigating potential inconveniences caused by the San Juanico Bridge closure and ensuring the smooth flow of goods and traffic within the region.
