Binondo-Intramuros Bridge and Beyond: Exploring the Longest and Most Iconic Bridges of the Philippines

Bridges do more than just connect places—they link people, culture, and progress. In the Philippines, where over 7,000 islands constitute the landscape, these structures are essential for travel, trade, and development. Some stand out not just for their length but for their historical significance and engineering feats. From the modern Binondo-Intramuros Bridge to timeless landmarks that have shaped the nation’s infrastructure, each has a story to tell. 

In this article, we’ll explore the longest and most iconic bridges in the Philippines, highlighting their impact, design, and the role they play in shaping communities.

Six Iconic Bridges in the Philippines 

1. Binondo-Intramuros Bridge

Image from Philippine News Agency 

The Binondo-Intramuros Bridge is a 680-meter (2,230 ft) tied-arch bridge in Manila, connecting Binondo and Intramuros across the Pasig River. With a steel bowstring arch design and four lanes, it eases traffic between the two historic districts while blending modern engineering with the city’s heritage.

2. Magapit Suspension Bridge

Image from PhilStar

The Magapit Suspension Bridge, the first of its kind in the country, spans the Cagayan River in Lal-lo. Known as the “Golden Gate of Cagayan,” it serves as a vital link for the northern part of Luzon. 

Since its completion in the 1970s, it has remained an important infrastructure project, supporting both trade and local connectivity.

3. San Juanico Bridge

Image from Philippine News Agency 

The San Juanico Bridge connects Samar and Leyte, and it was once the longest bridge in the Philippines. Its 2.16-kilometer span across the San Juanico Strait has made it a crucial transportation route for the region. The bridge also carries significant historical and cultural value, symbolizing unity between two provinces in the Visayas.

4. Agas-Agas Bridge

Image from Official Southern Leyte Website

The Agas-Agas Bridge in Southern Leyte is the tallest bridge in the Philippines, standing 89 meters (292 ft) above ground. Completed in 2006 as part of the Pan-Philippine Highway, the bridge spans 350 meters (1,150 ft). 

Funded partly by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the bridge helps prevent landslides in the area, improving safety and reducing travel time for motorists through the mountainous region.

5. Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX)

Image from Philippine News Agency 

The Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is the longest sea-crossing bridge in the country, stretching 8.9 kilometers. It connects Cebu City to Cordova on Mactan Island and is an engineering marvel with its impressive cable-stayed design. The bridge improves transportation efficiency and enhances Cebu’s position as a key economic and tourism hub.

6. Panguil Bay Bridge

Image from DPWH

The Panguil Bay Bridge, planned since 1998, began construction in February 2020 with a ₱7.37 billion budget. The bridge spans 3.77 kilometers (2.34 miles) with a 150-meter (490 ft) main span. Funded through a loan agreement with the Export–Import Bank of Korea, it significantly shortens travel between Tangub City and Panaon and boosts regional connectivity and economic growth.

Bridging the Future of the Philippines

Bridges in the Philippines go beyond being simple structures—they capture the country’s ambition for progress. From historic landmarks to modern engineering feats, they showcase the nation’s journey toward improved connectivity and economic growth. These projects push the Philippines closer to a future that honors both innovation and heritage.

References

DPWH. (n.d.). PRRD Opens 4-Lane Binondo-Intramuros Bridge. DPWH. https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/news/26202

Supetran, B. (n.d.). 39 beautiful bridges to drive through. Inquirer | Mobility. https://inqmobility.com/2024/12/09/columns/day-tripper/39-beautiful-bridges-to-drive-through/

Wikipedia. (n.d.). Binondo–Intramuros Bridge. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 2, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binondo%E2%80%93Intramuros_Bridge

Wikipedia. (n.d.). Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 2, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cebu%E2%80%93Cordova_Link_Expressway

Wikipedia. (n.d.). List of bridges in the Philippines. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 2, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_bridges_in_the_Philippines