Manila, June 27 -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is currently in discussions with prospective contractors to finalize project design strategies and detailed construction methodologies for the planned strengthening of the San Juanico Bridge.

The PHP1.17 billion project aims to raise San Juanico Bridge's load limit within the year, from the three-ton limit imposed since May 15.

"These discussions are focused on the proposed strengthening works, which aim to increase the bridge's load capacity to 12 tons. The civil works component of the project is expected to be completed within a five-month timeframe, once initiated," DPWH Eastern Visayas Regional Director Edgar Tabacon said in a statement Friday.

The DPWH regional ...