Manila, June 9 -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is assessing the capabilities of potential contractors in Eastern Visayas to undertake the strengthening of the San Juanico Bridge within this year.

DPWH Regional Director Edgar Tabacon said the retrofitting works contract is time-pressured and demands both strong technical and financial capabilities from contractors.

"We are evaluating the track records of our active contractors in the region. We are also in coordination with our local government units if they can recommend qualified contractors to strengthen the bridge," Tabacon said in a press briefing on Monday.

Tabacon said strengthening work is estimated to cost PHP1 billion, based on the revised plan mapped by ...