CEBU CITY, Philippines – The Philippines has cemented a new landmark in its infrastructure landscape with the completion and full operation of the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), officially the longest bridge in the archipelago. Stretching an impressive 8.9 kilometers across the Mactan Channel, the CCLEX has dramatically reshaped travel and economic prospects in Metro Cebu and beyond.
Inaugurated on April 27, 2022, the CCLEX stands as a testament to modern Philippine engineering and a vital artery connecting Cebu City on mainland Cebu to the municipality of Cordova on Mactan Island.
This ambitious project, costing approximately PHP 33 billion (around US$ 577.8 million), aims to serve an estimated 40,000 vehicles daily, significantly easing traffic congestion on existing routes and fostering greater economic activity.
The CCLEX’s design is a marvel in itself, featuring a majestic cable-stayed main bridge supported by twin tower pylons reaching 145 meters in height. These pylons are inspired by the iconic Magellan’s Cross Pavilion, adding a touch of cultural significance to the monumental structure. With a navigational clearance of 51 meters, the bridge allows large vessels to pass underneath unimpeded, ensuring the continued flow of maritime commerce.
Prior to the CCLEX, the iconic San Juanico Bridge, connecting Leyte and Samar, held the title of the country’s longest bridge spanning a body of water at 2.16 kilometers. While the San Juanico Bridge remains a crucial link and a beloved tourist attraction, the CCLEX significantly dwarfs it in length, showcasing a new era of infrastructure development in the Philippines.
The impact of the CCLEX extends far beyond mere transportation. It has been hailed as a catalyst for growth, offering a safer and more efficient route for people and goods. This enhanced connectivity is expected to boost tourism, trade, and investment in the Visayas region, particularly around Mactan Island, home to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
The project also demonstrates the Philippines’ commitment to its “Build Better More” infrastructure agenda, aiming to modernize the country’s transport networks and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
While the CCLEX is currently the nation’s longest, the Philippines’ infrastructure ambitions continue to grow. The proposed Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge, a much more extensive project envisioned to span 32 kilometers, is already in the planning stages and could potentially redefine the country’s longest bridge record in the coming years. For now, however, the CCLEX proudly stands as a symbol of progress, connecting communities and paving the way for a more connected and prosperous Philippines.
Maria Theresa Mondragon, better known online as Antie Marites, is a 33-year-old Filipina content creator who’s turning “chismis” into credible news and meaningful conversation.
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