The Sabnangan Footbridge is a marvel of engineering that spans the Abra River in the municipality of Luba, Abra, Philippines. It is the longest suspension bridge in Southeast Asia, with a length of 560 meters. The bridge connects the two barangays of Barangay Poblacion and Sabnangan, which were previously separated by the river.
The bridge was constructed in 2002 and was funded by the Department of Public Works and Highways. It was built to improve transportation and communication between the two barangays. The bridge has also become a popular tourist destination, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The bridge is made of steel and has a width of 2 meters. It can accommodate up to 200 people at a time. The bridge is suspended by 12 cables, each of which is 120 meters long. The bridge is 50 meters above the water level.
The Sabnangan Footbridge is also known as the Senator Juan Flavier Bridge. It was named after Senator Juan Flavier, a Filipino physician and public health advocate who served as the Secretary of Health from 1992 to 1998. Flavier was a native of Abra, and he played a significant role in the construction of the bridge.
The bridge was officially inaugurated on May 1, 2002, and it was dedicated to Flavier. A plaque was placed at the entrance of the bridge that reads:
"This bridge is dedicated to the memory of Senator Juan Flavier, a true son of Abra who dedicated his life to public service. His vision and leadership made this bridge a reality, and it will continue to serve the people of Abra for many years to come."
The Sabnangan Footbridge is a fitting tribute to Senator Juan Flavier. It is a symbol of his commitment to public service and his vision for a better future for the Philippines.
Crossing the Sabnangan Footbridge is a thrilling experience. The bridge sways and bounces in the wind, and the cables creak and groan. But the views from the bridge are worth it. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. The mountains are a deep green, and the river below is a sparkling blue.
If you are looking for a unique and exciting experience in the Philippines, be sure to visit the Sabnangan Footbridge. It is a truly amazing structure that offers stunning views and a thrilling crossing.
Here are some tips for visiting the Sabnangan Footbridge:
- Visit during the dry season (November to April). The bridge can be slippery when wet.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat. The bridge is exposed to the sun.
- Be prepared for strong winds. The bridge can sway and bounce in the wind.
- Don't be afraid to cross the bridge. It is a safe and secure structure.