San Juanico Bridge: The Longest & Beautifully Designed Bridge in the Philippines

Formerly called "Marcus Bridge," the San Juanico Bridge is a true architectural gem and a national landmark. Spanning 2.16 kilometers (1.34 miles), it connects the provinces of Samar and Leyte, easing travel and trade between the two islands.

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Pictures were taken before the typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan)

✨ Quick Facts:

• 📍 Location: Connects Samar and Leyte via Tacloban City
• 🌉 Length: 2.16 km (1.34 mi)
• 🕒 Construction Time: Completed in just 4 years
• 💑 Nickname: "Bridge of Love"
• 🌊 Crosses: San Juanico Strait (narrowest navigable strait in the world)
• 💪 Resilience: Withstood Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan)

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San Juanico Bridge taken from the side of Samar

🏗️ A Bridge Built with Love and Purpose

Rumor has it, the San Juanico Bridge was built as a grand gesture of love by former President Ferdinand Marcos for his wife, Imelda Romualdez Marcos, a native of Leyte. This is why it’s also called the "Bridge of Love."

 

Despite being built in a short span of 4 years, the bridge boasts impressive durability and has remained intact even after surviving one of the most powerful typhoons in Philippine history—Yolanda (Haiyan).

Some say there's an urban legend behind its strength, but only the engineers truly know the secret. 😉

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🌅 What to Expect When You Visit

🚗 Scenic Views: You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the San Juanico Strait, dotted with islets and mysterious whirlpools.
🔍 Hidden Shapes: From the Samar side, the bridge resembles an “S”, and from Leyte, an “L” — coincidence or intentional? See it from the air for the full effect!
🚶 Walkable Adventure: You can walk the entire bridge if you're feeling brave. Enjoy the breeze, hear the water, and feel the light tremble of the structure beneath your feet.

San Juanico Strait

📸 Photo Tip: While police guard both ends of the bridge and discourage stopping mid-bridge, you might snap a quick photo when traffic is light — but always prioritize safety!

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🚘 How to Get to San Juanico Bridge from Downtown Tacloban

🅿️ Option 1: Hire a Private Car (Best Option for Comfort)

• Travel Time: ~20 minutes
• Cost: ₱3,500–₱4,000 (good for a group of 4–6)
• Ideal if you’re planning to visit nearby spots like Rafael Farms or MacArthur Landing Park

💡 Tip: Haggle for package deals! We paid ₱3,500 for a full day (10 AM–5 PM) covering three locations.

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🚌 Option 2: Commute via Van or Bus

1. Ride a tricycle to Grand Tours, DUP Tours, or Van Van Tours terminals.
2. Buy a ticket to Guiuan, Samar.
3. Ask the driver to drop you near San Juanico Bridge.

⚠️ Note:

• Vans cannot stop on the bridge.
• Returning to Tacloban may be tricky as vans from Samar are often full.
• Always exercise patience, as terminal staff may not be the most accommodating.

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❤️San Juanico Bridge isn’t just a feat of engineering — it’s a symbol of connection, resilience, and Filipino ingenuity. Whether you're drawn by its romantic legend or its practical beauty, it’s impossible not to feel a swell of pride the first time you see it.

“I wanted to jump out of the car just to take pictures — that’s how awe-inspiring it is!”

📷 Photos were taken before Typhoon Yolanda.
📸 Photo credits: Joan Badiango