The Bridge of Love and Unity

Of all the bridges in the country, the San Juanico Bridge, also known as the Marcos Bridge that connects Leyte and Samar, may be the most beautiful.

I am without hesitation wanted to have a walk on the bridge. I got off the jeepney from the police outpost in Sta. Rita, Samar and walk a total of 2 kilometers to Tacloban City. At every point where there were no cars crossing, I am one of those "crazy" people running to the center of the road taking photo op at the bridge. It was fun. Many have navigated the bridge but only a handful walked the entirety of the  2.16 kilometer stretch of San Juanico bridge.

One story has it that the San Juanico Bridge is a gift to Imelda Marcos by the then President Ferdinand Marcos.

It was late 60s when the construction started and was completed in 1973. The bridge symbolizes the greatness of the Philippines during those times- when the Philippines is a first class country, prosperous and well disciplined. The San Juanico Bridge, a "symbol of love and unity that binds the north and south into the Filipino nation."

"Mabaisai" Basey

Basey pronounced "bah-sai", is a municipality in Western Samar, famous for its Eco-Tourism adventures in Sohotan. Also in this town, built by the Jesuits in the 17th century, is the church of San Miguel de Arcangel, the patron saint of Basey.

 The  bell tower still holds the bell forged in 1873. The church ceiling takes pride of a sketch of the triumph of San Miguel, defeating Lucifer.

San Miguel de Arcangel served the town of Basey during Philippine Liberation when it became a refuge camp. It was also served as Spanish Fortress during the early times. The church is strategically built uphill overlooking the San Pedro and San Pablo Bay.

Allure of Marabut..

It was a good day. It was one sunshiny day when I started the journey to Eastern Samar.

This Region of Waray speaking Visayans are blessed with a very good environment boasting of fine beaches and astounding rock formations.

Never I thought of this view when I crossed the San Juanico Bridge while on a mini bus bound for Guiuan.

 I asked instructions from the people inside and they are very helpful in giving directions. At one point, the bus got into minor trouble and needed to change tires. We were in this village in Marabut and not far from the road, concealed by the coconut trees I saw the shore and walked onto it. To my surprise, the rock formations by the sea. 

 With camera in my pocket, I hurriedly took pictures of the sight. And behold, the allure of the village of Caluwayan in Marabut, Samar.