There are a lot of hidden routes going into the Cordillera’s from all directions. A couple of years ago, we wanted to pass an alternate route going to Sagada via Ilocos Sur that was suggested by a friend from La Union. The route is going thru Tagudin, Ilocos Sur passing by Bessang Pass thru Cervantes Valley and ending up in Sagada. I did some research on Bessang Pass and found out a major military engagement occurred in 1945. The pass was defended by the Japanese forces of Gen. Yamashita , The Tiger of Malaya, against the advancing forces of the Americans.
One of the rusty hanging bridges along the way to the Pass. This one is near Barangay Malayo.
The roads were twisty and the concrete was in immaculate condition and hardly any cars. This is the dream road for anyone on a motorcycle.
Admiring the view near the top of the pass. Deep Valleys and Gorges are a staple on this trip
Do I need to say more?
Once we negotiated the pass, we ended up in Cervantes Valley and found out the bridge was under construction. Luckily we brought our 4WD and crossed the river but during rainy season this is un-passable because of the height of the water. I came across an article this year and it mentioned the completion of the longest bridges in the Philippines in the town of Cervantes. It turns out the bridge is called the Aluling Bridge and it’s infamous for being the “longest” bridge in the province of Ilocos. The structure is only 180 meters long but its length comes from the record it took to complete construction of the bridge. After nearly 4 decades ( 35 years ) and six presidents, the Aluling Bridge was finally completed on May 2013. Now thats progress !
Terra Explorare 