Tunnel or bridge? Solons push Luzon-Visayas link

Will it be an undersea tunnel or a bridge?

That’s the big question as lawmakers explore options to finally connect Luzon and the Visayas across the San Bernardino Strait — a project that could redefine inter-island travel in the Philippines.

In a rare show of unity, all 13 congressional representatives from Eastern Visayas and five partylist lawmakers have filed House Bill No. 4589, proposing a 28-kilometer fixed link between Sorsogon and Northern Samar.

“This is an investment in national economic integration and long-term growth,” said House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, one of the bill’s authors.

“A fixed link — whether a tunnel or a bridge — will cut travel time, guarantee year-round mobility even during storms and open up opportunities for trade, tourism and employment,” he added.

The proposed project aims to end the region’s dependence on ferry crossings between Matnog, Sorsogon and Allen, Northern Samar, which are often disrupted by rough weather.

Lawmakers said the structure — whichever form it takes — will boost commerce, attract tourists and make travel between Luzon and the Visayas faster and more reliable.

Under the bill, an international consulting firm with experience in large-scale tunnel or bridge projects will be tapped to conduct a feasibility study and engineering design, with funding to be included in the General Appropriations Act.

“Imagine driving straight from Metro Manila to Samar and Leyte without having to line up for a ferry,” Libanan said. “Our people deserve a faster, safer, and more dependable connection.”