Sorsogon-northern Samar Undersea Tunnel/bridge

THE TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE RECEIVED PHILIP REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES APR 2 1 2026 = First Regular Session TIME: 3: 11 PM SENATE BY: 2063 BILLS INDEX S. No. Introduced by Senator Camille A. Villar 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 EXPLANATORY NOTE The Philippine Constitution of 1987 declares that "the State shall promote industrialization and full employment based on sound agricultural development and agrarian reform, through industries that make full and efficient use of human and natural resources" (Article XII, Section 1), and further mandates that the State shall pursue a balanced and equitable development of the national economy. In keeping with these constitutional objectives, addressing the long-standing geographical separation between the island of Luzon and the Visayas is essential to ensuring 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 regions. At present, transportation between these provinces relies heavily on ferry services, which remain vulnerable to weather disturbances, capacity limitations, and operational inefficiencies. A direct and reliable connection between Sorsogon and Northern Samar would significantly facilitate the efficient movement of goods and services. Such infrastructure would strengthen trade linkages, stimulate local economies, and enhance the competitiveness of businesses in both regions. Furthermore, a bridge or undersea tunnel would create a new gateway for tourists traveling between Luzon and

the Visayas, thereby promoting regional tourism and contributing to the cultural and economic vitality of both provinces. Unlike ferry services that may be disrupted by inclement weather, a bridge or tunnel would provide a continuous and dependable transportation corridor. This would reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and improve overall accessibility for residents, businesses, and travelers. Moreover, the proposed infrastructure would provide a safer alternative to sea travel, particularly during typhoon seasons and other adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the risk of maritime accidents. By physically linking Luzon and the Visayas, the project would also advance national cohesion by enabling greater connectivity among Filipinos from different regions. This practical and symbolic unification would strengthen national identity, encourage resource sharing, and promote more equitable development across the archipelago. The bill for the construction of a bridge or undersea tunnel between Sorsogon and Northern Samar is not merely an infrastructure initiative; it is a transformative step toward national integration, economic growth, and an improved quality of life for the Filipino people. The benefits of this project extend beyond the immediately affected areas and will contribute meaningfully to the country's long-term development goals. In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought. Cumullecizuein CAMILLE A. VILLAR

THE TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE TE PHILIP -CEVal REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES OFFICE APR 1 2026 DATE First Regular Session TIME: 3: 11, PM SENATE BY: BILLS & INDEX S. No. 2063 Introduced by Senator Camille A. Villar 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.

Sec. 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.

Sec 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the

Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. Approved,