The Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has urged the national government to urgently build proper infrastructure for the Lighterage Cargo Transport (LCT) route, now the province’s main link to mainland Leyte due to load limits on the Biliran Bridge.

In a statement on Wednesday, the chamber recognized the Biliran provincial government for quickly setting up the barging system, which prevented a total halt in trade and travel.

However, BCCI said that more than a year of dependence on the LCT route has exposed major gaps in policy and infrastructure.

“These deficiencies pose risks to public safety, damage vehicles and goods, slow down logistics, and increase operational costs that are eventually passed on to consumers,” the statement said.

The business group also cited the recently completed PHP30-million bridge repair project, noting that it resulted in only a marginal increase in the bridge’s load capacity — from five tons to 15 tons.

Given this, BCCI said the lack of investment in alternative route infrastructure is no longer practical or sustainable.

It called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other agencies to immediately upgrade docking facilities, access roads, traffic systems, and safety features along the LCT route.

“These are no longer temporary solutions but essential economic infrastructure,” the chamber said.

BCCI warned that prolonged transport disruptions continue to hurt the provincial economy, affecting supply chains, prices, and investor confidence.

It underscored the need for a clear, time-bound plan with transparent funding to develop safe and reliable docking ports and access roads.

The group added it is ready to work with government and private stakeholders to ensure the smooth flow of goods, stable prices, and protection of public safety. (PNA)