President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday inspected the almost complete Camalaniugan Bridge linking Aparri and Camalaniugan municipalities in Cagayan province and considered as the longest cable-stayed bridge in Cagayan Valley (Region II).

“We are looking at one of the most beautiful bridges that we have created in the Philippines. And I’m happy to note that it was done as well in time and it was done properly,” President Marcos said in his remarks during the inspection.

The President said the bridge’s design was done locally. “Kaya kahit na parang ginaya ‘yung mga tulay sa ibang bansa ay talagang ito lahat galing sa atin.”

Once the Camalaniugan Bridge opens for traffic, the travel time between Aparri and Ballesteros municipalities in Cagayan will be reduced from one hour to 20 minutes, benefitting 6,000 travelers a day.

“So, sana mabuksan natin by Christmas ito,” President Marcos said.

“Malaking bagay ito kasi Aparri-Claveria, Aparri–Ballesteros, hanggang Ballesteros mayroon ng magandang daan. Anim na libo ang dadaan dito bawat isang araw,” the President continued.

“So, madami talagang traffic. Tamang-tama nandiyan ‘yung Aparri Port. Lahat nung mga gamit na dati kung saan-saan – ang layo ng dinadaanan, eh ngayon dito 20 minutes na lang.”

The Camalaniugan Bridge primarily aims to provide an alternate route to the Magapit Suspension Bridge, the only bridge that crosses Cagayan River in northern Cagayan.

The construction started in May 2020, with 99 percent of the civil works accomplished as of September 30, 2025.

The construction of the new bridge would enhance accessibility and eventually strengthen economic linkages and reduce travel time and cost for the continuous movement of goods and people. | PND