The San Juanico Bridge, the primary link between Samar and Leyte, has been closed to vehicles over three tons since May 15 for a two-year rehabilitation. Completed in 1973, this iconic bridge is vital to the Eastern Nautical Highway in the Philippine Nautical Highway System (PNHS). Its closure has disrupted the movement of goods and people, increasing travel time, costs, and logistical challenges. This underscores the PNHS's critical role in ensuring inter-island connectivity and the vulnerabilities exposed when key infrastructure is strained.

Since its launch on April 12, 2003, the PNHS has revolutionized inter-island travel and trade. Spanning 919 kilometers, this network of highways and Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) ferry routes has reduced transportation costs, improved supply chain efficiency, and opened new markets. It has also boosted tourism and economic growth. However, rising demand and infrastructure challenges threaten its reliability, making improvements essential to sustaining its role as a driver of connectivity and progress.

For businesses, the PNHS has been transformative. It has significantly lowered transportation costs, allowing producers and distributors to move goods more efficiently. Agricultural producers benefit from faster delivery of perishable goods to distant markets, reducing spoilage and losses. Manufacturers and distributors also save on overhead costs, as the PNHS provides a more affordable alternative to air or traditional sea freight. Its RoRo services, which accommodate trucks, buses, and private vehicles, have streamlined the movement of goods and people, improving supply chains nationwide.

Beyond trade and logistics, the PNHS has also boosted tourism, indirectly benefiting businesses. Easier and more affordable travel has encouraged tourists to visit previously inaccessible destinations, revitalizing local economies and creating opportunities in hospitality, retail, and services. The PNHS fosters a more dynamic and interconnected economy by driving tourism growth.

However, the system faces several challenges. Many RoRo ferries are refurbished ships, raising concerns about safety, reliability, and environmental sustainability. Frequent mechanical issues and breakdowns disrupt the smooth movement of goods and people, causing delays. For businesses, these delays translate to lost revenue and increased operational costs.

Additionally, congestion at port terminals is a significant issue. During peak seasons, terminals are overwhelmed by long queues of vehicles and passengers. Limited berthing spaces and inefficient cargo handling processes further exacerbate delays, disrupting supply chains and increasing business costs due to additional storage and labor expenses.

The PNHS's ticketing system is inefficient, with many ports still using manual and disorganized processes. This leads to long waits for passengers and cargo operators. For businesses, it means wasted time and resources as employees and vehicles sit idle. A modern, streamlined system is urgently needed.

Port operations are another major concern. Irregular schedules and sudden cancellations disrupt travel plans, creating uncertainty for businesses relying on the PNHS for logistics. Time-sensitive goods, like fresh produce, are especially affected, leading to financial losses. The absence of a standardized system for managing port activities worsens the problem, leaving businesses and passengers vulnerable to unreliable operations.

To ensure the PNHS remains a cornerstone of business growth, modernizing the RoRo fleet must be a top priority. Investments in eco-friendly ships and upgraded technology will enhance safety, reliability, and environmental sustainability. Public-private partnerships, aided by government incentives like tax breaks, can help fund these upgrades. Second, upgrading port infrastructure is critical. Ports need more berthing spaces, efficient cargo handling systems, and digital technologies to reduce delays and improve operations. A centralized online ticketing system would also allow businesses to schedule trips in advance, optimizing logistics and reducing wait times. Lastly, standardizing port operations is vital. Establishing clear protocols for ferry schedules, cargo handling, and a centralized monitoring system would make operations smoother and more predictable. These improvements will ensure the PNHS remains efficient, reliable, and capable of supporting the growing demands of businesses and the economy.

As the PNHS continues to grow in importance, its efficient and effective operation becomes a shared responsibility. The government must take the lead in addressing infrastructure and operational challenges, while private sector stakeholders must invest in modernizing their fleets and improving service quality. The PNHS is more than just a transportation network; it is a vital economic artery that drives growth and connectivity across the Philippines. By addressing its challenges and implementing the proposed improvements, the PNHS can continue to empower the business community, foster regional development, and contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity.