By Eva C. Visperas

 

I made my way down a long, narrow road to witness the much-anticipated inauguration of the 90-meter hanging bridge in Barangay Lipit Sur, Manaoag on November 29. The new steel-and-concrete bridge connects Lipit Sur with Pugaro, which are separated by a river that had long posed a significant barrier for locals, especially during the rainy season.

The invitation I received mentioned the inauguration of the hanging bridge, a long-awaited infrastructure project, so I decided to tag along with a fellow journalist to avoid potential parking issues. It was a wise choice. The area is still beautifully bucolic, with the river providing a panoramic backdrop. But beneath this serene exterior lay the harsh reality that residents had to cross the river using a precarious bamboo bridge, a dangerous endeavor — particularly during typhoons when the river swells.

The stories I heard from the locals were heart-wrenching.

On the day of the inauguration, the residents ’gratitude was palpable as they welcomed former Congresswoman Manay Gina and her son, Representative Christopher de Venecia, who championed the project. The bridge, they said, was more than just a structure; it was a symbol of perseverance, community effort, and hope for the future.

For years, the residents of Lipit Sur and Pugaro had faced the arduous task of crossing the river to reach the town center of Manaoag. When the rains came, the bamboo bridge would become too dangerous to use, and people had to rely on rescue vehicles or take long detours.

While waiting for the De Venecias to arrive, I spoke with several locals about the impact of the new bridge. Bernard Valdez, a 58-year-old resident of Lipit Sur, recalled, “During typhoons, we had to take a truck around, and that was the only way to get to school or work. The bamboo bridge was dangerous, especially for children.”

Danilo Garcia, a barangay tanod, also shared his relief. “When the water was low, we would cross, but when it was high, we had to take a much longer route, sometimes all the way to Nantangalan. It was really difficult. But now, this bridge will make it safer for everyone, especially the students.”

One of the most touching stories came from Kristel Joy Pajarillo, a 12-year-old student from Lipit Sur Elementary School. “Before, I had to wake up at 5:30 a.m. just to make it to school on time. Sometimes we had to use the bamboo bridge, which was risky. But now, I wake up at 6 a.m. and leave by 7 a.m., and I’m not late anymore. I’m so thankful we finally have this bridge,” she said with a smile.

Realyn Bautista, a teacher at Lipit Sur Elementary, also shared her emotional memories. “There were times when the water was so strong, but we had no choice but to cross. The bamboo bridge was slippery, and I remember slipping and soaking my things. This bridge is a huge relief for all of us,” she said, her voice tinged with emotion.

For Mayor Ming Rosario, the bridge is more than just a physical structure; it’s a legacy that will benefit generations to come.

Cong. Toff, whose advocacy and support made the project possible, spoke with pride. “This project started when Kap Benedict came to me with the idea. We were in Babasit when he mentioned the need for a bridge here, and I knew we had to prioritize it. It’s been a long road, but seeing it completed today is so rewarding,” he shared.

He also acknowledged the community’s role in the project’s success, noting, “Every time we cross this bridge, we’re reminded of the perseverance that brought us here.”

Manay Gina, who led the groundbreaking ceremony in March 2024, spoke emotionally of the bridge’s significance. “This project is very sentimental for me because I was there from the start. I’m so grateful that after many years, the suffering of our people, especially the students, is finally over. They can now cross the river safely, without fear,” she said.

The inauguration marked a new chapter for the people of Lipit Sur and Pugaro, one built on resilience, hope, and a shared dream of progress.

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