Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
NINETEENTH CONGRESS 
Third Regular Session 
House Bill No.__ 
Introduced by REPRESENTATIVE MARCELINO C. LIBANAN 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The geographical separation between the island of Luzon and the Visayas regions has long 
posed significant challenges to the seamless movement of people, goods, and services. The San 
Bernardino Strait, which separates Sorsogon in Luzon from Northern Samar in the Visayas, serves 
as a natural barrier to the economic integration of these two regions. Currently, the transportation 
link between these provinces is heavily reliant on ferries, which are subject to weather disruptions, 
capacity limitations, and inefficiencies. 
A direct, reliable connection between Sorsogon and Northern Samar will facilitate the more 
efficient movement of goods and services. This will bolster trade, stimulate local economies, and 
enhance the competitiveness of businesses in both regions. The bridge or tunnel will create a new 
gateway for tourists traveling between Luzon and the Visayas, promoting regional tourism and 
contributing to the cultural and economic vibrancy of both provinces. 
Moreover, unlike ferry services, which can be disrupted by inclement weather, a bridge or 
tunnel will provide a continuous and dependable transportation link. This will reduce travel time, 
lower transportation costs, and improve overall accessibility for residents, businesses, and 
travelers. Further, the infrastructure will offer a safer alternative to sea travel, especially during 
typhoon seasons and adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the risk of maritime accidents. 
Consequently, by physically connecting Luzon and the Visayas, this project will enhance 
national cohesion, making it easier for Filipinos from different regions to connect, share resources, 
and collaborate. This symbolic and practical unification will strengthen the sense of national 
identity and promote equitable development across the archipelago. 
The construction of a bridge or tunnel will have strategic importance by improving the 
mobility of people and resources between the two regions. This infrastructure can be crucial for 
disaster response, national defense, and maintaining the integrity of the Philippine territory. 
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August 13, 2024
10:25 am


The proposed law for the construction of a bridge or undersea tunnel between Sorsogon 
and Northern Samar is not merely an infrastructure project; it is a bold step toward national 
integration, economic prosperity, and improved quality of life for the Filipino people. The benefits 
of such a project will resonate far beyond the immediate regions, contributing to the nation's long-
term development goals. It is, therefore, imperative that this legislative measure be given the 
highest priority to ensure the realization of this transformative vision. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.      
MARCELINO C. LIBANAN 
Representative 
4Ps Partylist 


Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
NINETEENTH CONGRESS 
Third Regular Session 
House Bill No.__ 
Introduced by REPRESENTATIVE MARCELINO C. LIBANAN 
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN UNDERSEA TUNNEL OR 
BRIDGE FROM THE PROVINCE OF SORSOGON TO THE PROVINCE OF 
NORTHERN SAMAR, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. There shall be constructed under the supervision of the Department of Public Works 
and Highways (DPWH) an undersea tunnel or bridge, from the Province of Sorsogon to the 
Province of Northern Samar, including access roads thereto. 
SECTION 2. The amount necessary to defray the cost of undertaking and completing the feasibility 
study and detailed engineering for this project and other activities related thereto shall be included 
in the General Appropriations Act (GAA). Thereafter, the Secretary of the DPWH shall include in 
the Department’s program the construction of said undersea tunnel or bridge, the funding of which 
shall be included in the annual GAA. 
SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette 
or in a newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved, 
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