Connecting Abra Over the Waterways with the Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridge Project

In the province of Abra, located in the northern Philippines, transportation and infrastructure have long been key challenges for connecting remote areas. Over time, the need for robust infrastructure that links communities and enables the free movement of people and goods has become increasingly crucial for economic and social development. One of the standout efforts in achieving this connection is the Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridge Project, that has significantly improved access across the province’s rivers and waterways.

Soot Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridge seen from Escala Homestay in March 2025

The Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges, named after a former congressman from the region, represent a vision for better connectivity in Abra. These bridges span some of the most challenging rivers in the province, the Abra River, Binongan River, Tineg River and Malanas River to name a few,  bridging not only the natural divide but also the socio-economic gaps between communities.

In a province where many areas are separated by vast river systems, these bridges have been transformative, providing easier access to markets, healthcare, education, vital government services, and shorter routes to Bangued the provincial capital.

Image – Dugong Legacy Bridge, Bucay

Langiden Legacy Bridge under construction in August 2024

Before these bridges were built, the people of Abra had to rely on ferries, small boats, or even makeshift bamboo raft systems, called “Balsas”, to cross rivers, which often posed safety risks and prolonged travel times. 

This made it difficult for communities to interact and for businesses to expand their reach. With the construction of the Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges, travel has become far safer and more efficient. The bridges now act as vital lifelines, enabling people to cross swiftly and safely, and ensuring that goods can be transported without delay.

Image – Malanas Legacy Bridge, San Juan with a view of the old Overflow Bridge 

Sunset over Buli Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridge.

These bridges also play a crucial role in stimulating the local economy. By facilitating smoother travel, farmers can transport crops to markets, school children can reach school safely, families can visit relatives or access essential services, and businesses can expand their operations.

Additionally, the presence of the bridges has attracted investment, with new businesses setting up shop in areas that were previously hard to reach. The improved infrastructure also makes it easier for government and non-government organisations to provide support and services to communities in need.

Image – Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges. Dolores Bridge view from Caridads

The Jb Bernos Legacy Bridge. Namarabar, Penarubbia

Culturally, the Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges also symbolise the unity of the province. They remind residents that, despite the geographical challenges posed by the rivers, they are all part of a larger, interconnected community.

This shared infrastructure fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support, as people now have the means to visit, help, and work with one another across previously difficult-to-access areas.

Image – Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges. Madegnac, Tineg 

Crossing the newly opened  Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges. Quirsodan, Lagangilang. March 2025

The bridges stand as a lasting legacy of the commitment to improving the lives of the people of Abra. They are a testament to the power of infrastructure to unite communities and create opportunities for progress. 

As the province continues to grow and evolve, the Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges will remain a vital part of its future, ensuring that the waterways that once divided are now pathways for connection and advancement.

Image – Dugong Abra River crossing  by land bridge during the dry season or Balsa ( bottom right) during rainy season

Ganao  Legacy Bridge. Brgy Liguis, La Paz. October 2024

List of Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges that I have documented – (more to be added soon)

Cardona, Dolores – Tineg River
Badas, San Juan – Malanas River
Ganao Bridge, Liguis, La Paz – Soot River
Buli, La Paz – Tineg River
Soot Bridge, Mudeng, La Paz – Soot River
Demet Bridge, Poblacion La Paz 
Madegnac Bridge, Tineg – Binongan River
Dugong, Bucay – Abra River
Langiden – Abra River
Quirsodan, Lagangilang – Baay River
Namarabar, Penarrubia – Sinalang River

Image – Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges. Demet Bridge , Poblacion La Paz with full moon March 2025

 Jb Bernos Legacy Bridge, spanning the Tineg River in Dolores

Other Cong Jb Bernos Legacy Bridges

In progress that have yet to be documented are being constructed in 

Boliney, Brgy Abang in Bucay,  Brgy Palao in Bangued,  Tayum and Tubo

Crossing the Abra River by Balsa before the construction of Bridges

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