Bridge Revival

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s recent directive to fast-track the rehabilitation of the iconic San Juanico Bridge is more than just an infrastructure order—it is a bold affirmation of how national landmarks can serve as vital arteries of economic and cultural revitalization.

Spanning 2.16 kilometers and linking the islands of Samar and Leyte, the San Juanico Bridge is not only a marvel of engineering but also a symbol of unity and resilience for the people of Eastern Visayas. Its rehabilitation is long overdue. Years of wear and tear, combined with the changing needs of modern transport and tourism, have dimmed the shine of this once-prized national asset.

The President’s call to action reflects a broader push to enhance regional development, stimulate tourism, and ensure public safety. In an age where infrastructure is the lifeblood of economic mobility, restoring the San Juanico Bridge is an investment in the future, one that promises to yield dividends in job creation, trade, and cultural exchange.

But to maximize its impact, rehabilitation must go hand in hand with thoughtful planning. The bridge must not only be structurally sound but also aesthetically enhanced and digitally integrated, fitting the region’s vision of being a competitive, sustainable growth hub.

Moreover, the administration must ensure that the process is transparent, timely, and inclusive. Local governments, heritage advocates, and community stakeholders must be engaged in shaping what the new San Juanico Bridge will mean—not just as a road, but as a living heritage.

President Marcos’ order deserves public support. The San Juanico Bridge is not just a means of crossing waters—it is a passage to progress. And in restoring it, the government can send a clear message: that national pride and practical governance can meet at the same span.