Crossing the San Juanico Bridge from Tacloban to Samar ☺️

Hello everyone!

Hope all are safe and well! ☺️❤️🙏

One of the most iconic landmarks in the Philippines is the San Juanico Bridge, connecting Tacloban City in Leyte to the province of Samar. Known as the longest bridge in the Philippines for many years, it stretches gracefully over the San Juanico Strait with a length of about 2.16 kilometers. Built during the Marcos administration in the early 1970s, the bridge became a symbol of engineering achievement and connection between the islands. While it was once the longest, today other bridges have surpassed it in length but San Juanico still holds a special place in the hearts of many travelers and locals.

I had the chance to pass by this famous bridge on my way to Samar. During my trip, the bridge was undergoing repairs and rehabilitation, which is why it could not carry heavy vehicles at the moment. This has been a concern in recent years as the bridge has shown signs of wear and aging. To ensure safety, authorities have placed barriers and barricades on some sections, preventing vehicles from crossing the damaged side.

Because of the repair works, traffic was quite heavy that day. Long lines of cars, vans, buses, and trucks patiently waited for their turn to cross. It was a hot day, but everyone seemed to understand the situation.

Policemen were stationed at both entrances, one in Tacloban and one in Samar to manage the flow of vehicles. They enforced a one-way-at-a-time system, meaning vehicles from one side would have to wait until the other side cleared before crossing. It was a bit of a hassle, but at the same time, I admired the discipline and effort to keep everyone safe.

You can see the San Juanico Bridge with orange barriers lined up in the middle of the road. This part shows how the flow of vehicles is guided to keep them away from the damaged lane. Despite the restrictions, I couldn’t help but admire the view, the blue waters of San Juanico Strait glistening below and the bridge curving beautifully into the distance. It is truly breathtaking.

Crossing the bridge that day wasn’t quick. It took patience and a lot of waiting, but it was still memorable. As we finally moved forward, I looked out at the vast stretch of water and thought about how this bridge has carried countless stories, families traveling together, workers going back and forth, goods being transported, all made possible by this connection between Leyte and Samar.

When we reached Samar, I felt relieved and grateful. There's a station of policemen and a long line of vehicles waiting their turn. Some cars were parked on the side, while others slowly inched forward. It was a hot and tiring wait, but it also made me realize how important this bridge is. Everyone was patient, knowing it’s the only passage connecting the two islands.

Despite the traffic and restrictions, we crossed safely. The experience taught me that sometimes, even in delays, there’s beauty. Because of the slow pace, I got to really appreciate the bridge not just as a structure, but as a witness to the daily lives and journeys of so many people.

Have a Blessed Tuesday everyone! 😀😀😀💖💖💖

Thank You Lord for the blessings and love!

Be grateful in every little/simple things and you’ll find happiness you ever wanted! 😀😀😀

Everyday is worth to be grateful of!

Praying for the safety and wellness of all.

Heal Our Land Oh God!

Lovelots,
@shikika