Roxas City Bridge turns 100
The historic Roxas City Bridge, which connects the heart of the city to the main commercial center on Roxas Avenue, was constructed in the early 1900s.
The construction in phases took place from 1908 to 1910 under the consecutive gubernatorial reigns of Capiz Governors Antonio Habana (1907-1909) and Jose Cortes Altavas (1910-1916) and during the third president of the town of Capiz (then El Pueblo de Capiz), President Pastor Alcazar (1908-1912).
Under the Commonwealth period, when Manuel Quezon was a resident Commissioner of the Philippines in the US House of Representatives, its construction was supervised by American architects under the Bureau of Public Works which was later known as Department of Public Works and Highways.
The Bridge was constructed during the “bridge building frenzy” of the American Commonwealth period when the Americans proved that “what could be linked with a bridge was indeed connected.” The Bridge had very few renovations since its construction – the structure that spans the Panay River still looks almost exactly as it did before.
Capiz Provincial Tourism Officer Alphonsus Tesoro said the Roxas City Bridge is a “living testament to its durability, having withstood the World War II.”
“It has played a great role in stimulating economic activities, providing mobility to Capiz residents and making possible the transport of goods and services easy and affordable,” he said.
To celebrate the Roxas City Bridge’s Centennial, cultural performances /Street Jam will be held on December 8, last day of the Sinadya sa Halaran 2010 celebration.*
