The Freeman ProgreCEBU: Cebu’s bridges over the years

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu’s development and rapid economic growth is closely intertwined with its evolving infrastructure, epitomized by the three monumental bridges: the Mactan-Mandaue Bridge, Marcelo Fernan Bridge, and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX).

Let us take a closer look at how these structural innovations unfold over the years, advancing the architectural aspect and the city's economy, as well as serving as linkages between two islands.

Fifty-four years ago, the Mactan-Mandaue Bridge, now known as the Osmeña Bridge, was built to connect Lapu-Lapu City and Metro Cebu. Completed in 1973, this 854-meter truss bridge was Cebu’s first. Renamed in 2013 after Senator Sergio Osmeña Sr., this bridge is a testament to Filipino engineering, designed to handle heavy traffic and adverse weather. Its construction guarantees durability and safety, providing a dependable pathway for everyday commuters and travelers.

Parallel to the first Cebu-Mactan bridge lies the Marcelo Fernan Bridge, a vital link connecting Mandaue City to Lapu-Lapu City over the Mactan Channel. Constructed from 1996 to 1999, this extradosed cable-stayed bridge was inaugurated by former Philippine President Joseph Estrada, symbolizing the Philippine-Japan friendship. This bridge was built to reduce traffic congestion from the older Mactan-Mandaue Bridge.

The latest addition, which opened in 2022 is the Cebu-Cordova Link Express (CCLEX) — a multi-billion peso project that links Cebu City with Cordova. Opened on April 20, 2022, this 89-kilometer cable-stayed bridge enhances connectivity between Metro Cebu and Mactan Island, significantly reducing travel time. The bridge’s distinctive lighted crosses and LED-lit stay cables symbolize Cebu's hope and progress. With its two lanes in each direction, CCLEX expands road capacity and helps motorists save on fuel.

There’s no doubt that these three bridges not only serve as vital arteries of connectivity and a solution to the transportation system in the city but also symbolize Cebu's relentless pursuit of progress, promising a future of sustained growth and development. — Resha Kaye Sarita