Marcos inaugurates Camalaniugan Bridge, opens new link between Aparri and Camalaniugan
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (RTVM)
President Marcos on Thursday, Jan. 8, led the inauguration of the Camalaniugan Bridge, formally opening a new transportation link between the towns of Camalaniugan and Aparri in Cagayan province.
In his speech, Marcos said the bridge, which was opened to traffic immediately after the ceremony, is expected to significantly improve mobility and economic activity in northern Cagayan.
He noted that the project was completed on time and on budget, commending the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for sustaining work despite various challenges.
“This will serve as a model for many of the other bridge projects that we will be seeing around the country,” the President said.
Marcos said the bridge cuts travel time by providing a direct crossing over the Cagayan River, eliminating the need for long detours.
“Napakalaking bagay ang paglagay ng ganitong klaseng tulay dahil it cuts the travel time (Putting up this kind of bridge is a big deal because it cuts travel time),” he said.
With the opening of the bridge, travel between Aparri and Ballesteros is expected to drop from about one hour to as little as 20 minutes, easing congestion and lowering transport costs.
According to the President, the bridge will help transform the local economy by opening new opportunities for jobs and businesses on both sides of the river.
“Nakakasiguro ako na ang tulay na ito, magbabago ang ekonomiya sa magkabila ng tulay na ito (I am certain that this bridge will change the economy on both sides of the river),” he said.
He added that improved access would benefit surrounding communities and allow residents to feel the economic effects in a short period of time.
The Camalaniugan Bridge spans a total length of 1,580 meters, including approach bridges and a 480-meter cable-stayed main span, directly linking Camalaniugan and Aparri.
The bridge provides an alternative route to the Magapit Suspension Bridge, previously the only river crossing in the northernmost part of Cagayan.
Marcos personally inspected the project in October 2025, ahead of its completion and formal opening on Jan. 8.
The bridge is expected to serve around 6,000 travelers daily, supporting trade, agriculture, logistics, and tourism in the region.