San Juanico Bridge, connecting Samar and Leyte, is an iconic symbol of solidarity between the two provinces of the Philippines. It is a marvel of engineering that stretches 2.16 kilometers long across the San Juanico Strait. But what makes it a unique marvel is its rich history, from horror stories to fascinating paranominal activities. Let’s explore why this bridge is so special!
Horror Story of San Juanico Bridge, Samar and Leyte
The San Juanico Bridge is a source of dread among several villages in Samar and Leyte. The bridge is thought to be cursed because for decades, people have claimed to see strange, dark figures lurking in the shadows at night. Those brave enough to cross the bridge at night usually report smelling a foul stench, hearing ghostly voices, and feeling a paralyzing fear as if something was watching them.
The legends say that the powerful spirit of an ancient chieftain, named Naga Cave, guards the bridge and punishes anyone who dares to cross it. Those who do manage to make it across unscathed are luckier than most, as many crossing it never return. The unlucky travelers that do come back tell tales of a woman dressed in all black who appears out of thin air. She then forces them to listen to her tormented life story before an unseen force casts them away.
Stories of Naga Cave are popular among the towns, and children are warned to never dare to cross the bridge at night. Even now, travelers tend to avoid the bridge after dusk, and for good reason.
Are you planning to explore haunted places this vacation? History & Information of San Juanico Bridge, Samar and Leyte
The San Juanico Bridge, also known as the Marcos Bridge, is a bridge in the Eastern Visayas region that spans the San Juanico Strait, connecting the islands of Samar and Leyte in the Philippines. The 2.16km bridge was constructed between 1969 and 1972 by the Philippine government under then president Ferdinand Marcos, and opened on the 13th of November 1972.
The bridge has several distinct features, such as its Napoleon-style five arches, its bright blue steel with white stone friezes, and its two sets of seven steel towers and two sets of pylons, each constructed from reinforced concrete. The bridge has a total of 46 spans, with the longest span reaching 71 meters in length.
In 2003, the San Juanico Bridge was designated by the Philippine government as a national historical monument, owing to its immense cultural, political, and economic significance. The bridge has been regarded by many as a symbol of unity between the two provinces, bridging the separation between them both temporally and socially. In September 2020, the government began a project to modernise the bridge and to expand its capacity to 6 lanes.
The bridge today serves as an important transport link between the two islands, carrying both passenger and cargo traffic, and is the primary access route between the eastern and western sides of the region. It also serves as a popular tourist attraction and offers a breathtaking view of the San Juanico Strait.
This place is famous for its haunted stories and hence tops the list of the scariest places on Earth. Paranomial Activity of San Juanico Bridge, Samar and Leyte
San Juanico Bridge, also known as the Marcos Bridge, is a 2.16 km-long (1.34 mi) bridge connecting the islands of Leyte and Samar in the Philippines. It is considered the longest bridge in the Philippines, spanning 8.14 km (5.05 mi).
The bridge was named after the San Juanico Strait, which it crosses, and which separates the islands of Leyte and Samar. The strait is one of the narrowest bodies of water in the Philippines and the bridge was built to improve transportation between the two islands. It is part of the Maharlika Highway, which facilitates vehicular traffic between the two islands.
The bridge was designed by a team of Filipino engineers and local architects and construction was completed in 1973 during the Marcos administration. The structure of the bridge consists of box girder span, an arch span, and a cable-stayed span. It features two lanes of open road with shoulder lanes on both sides for emergency use. It is supported by 18 piers and 2 abutments.
In the past, the bridge has been used for various paronautical activities. In 2010, a marathon was organized and was held over the bridge, and in 2018, a military parade was conducted in the area to celebrate Philippine Independence day. The bridge has also been used as a backdrop for various movies, television shows, and documentaries. More recently, it also served as the starting point of the Caramoan Island-Leyte cycling competition.
The San Juanico Bridge symbolizes the strong bond between the two provinces, Samar and Leyte. It is a popular tourist attraction and a national landmark, with its various activities and events throughout the year. With its vibrant colors and scenic views of both islands, it is definitely the best place to marvel in spectacular paronautical activities.
Experience of people & Reviews of San Juanico Bridge, Samar and Leyte
People generally have a positive opinion of the San Juanico Bridge which connects Samar and Leyte in the Philippines. For many, it is part of a beloved childhood memory due to its picturesque vistas – especially during sunrise or sunset. Those who drive on this bridge often comment on the beautiful views of the two hillsides and nearby islands. It is even said to have the best sunset view in the whole country.
The San Juanico bridge is also praised for its impressive architecture which is said to be quite unique. It is one of the longest bridges in Southeast Asia – spanning 2.14 kilometers (1.33 miles) – and with its well-designed and carefully constructed approach ramps, it is a wonder of a project.
In addition, many visitors also appreciate the local culture and history that is associated with the San Juanico Bridge. People recount stories about the time and effort put into its construction, as well as the involvement of the local people. It is even said that the bridge serves as a symbol of Filipino unity.
Finally, people are particularly appreciative of the project’s cost-effectiveness. The bridge was able to deliver a great stretch of highway, without the need for a large budget. This helped to open up the region and largely contribute to the economic development of the area.
This is the must-visit mystery place in the world. FAQ'S of San Juanico Bridge, Samar and Leyte
Q1: Where is the San Juanico Bridge?
A1: The San Juanico Bridge is located on the islands of Samar and Leyte in the Philippines.
Q2: How long is the San Juanico Bridge?
A2: The San Juanico Bridge is a two-lane bridge that spans 2.16 kilometers (1.34 miles).
Q3: What is the history of the San Juanico Bridge?
A3: The San Juanico Bridge was constructed in 1969, with funding from the Japanese government, to connect the islands of Leyte and Samar. It was opened for public use in 1973.
Q4: What is the maximum speed limit for the bridge?
A4: The maximum speed limit for the bridge is 50 kilometers per hour (30 miles per hour).
Q5: Does the bridge offer tolls?
A5: Yes, the bridge does have a small toll for crossing the bridge.