Patapat Viaduct in Pagudpud Is More Than Just a Road at the Northern Tip of the Country
Most roads are nothing if not mere pathways to other areas. Patapat Viaduct, however, is a different matter.
Located in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, Patapat Viaduct is not just an ordinary bridge. This coastal bridge connects Maharlika Highway from Ilocos Region to its neighboring province Cagayan Valley.
Standing 31 meters above the sea shore, Patapat Viaduct is considered as the Philippine’s 5th longest bridge with its 1.3-kilometer length that snakes around the mountain edge. It was built for the purpose of preventing the problem of landslides in the area which caused vehicular accidents in the past.
Patapat Viaduct is considered as the 5th longest bridge in the country
What makes this bridge a tourist attraction is its one-of-a-kind view. Motorists passing by the bridge can get a picturesque view of the Pasaleng Bay. It’s flanked on the other side of the West Philippine Sea, making it a perfect spot for taking photos. The Mabugabog Falls, a mini-hydro plant, can also be found along the viaduct.
Tourists can pull over at the side of the road and take photos with the mountain and sea view as their background. If you look at your phone’s Map application, you’ll be amazed by the fact that you are located exactly at the northernmost extremity of Luzon.
Another fun fact: Patapat Viaduct is so near Batanes and Taiwan that during night time, you can get radio signals from Taiwan there!
Just take note that rain showers happen at times, so if you still want to do a quick photo shoot by the bridge, bring your jackets or cap to avoid getting wet by the rain showers.
General Information:
Address: Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
Operating hours: Open 24 hours daily
A version of this appeared in Philippine Primer’s Japanese (Vol. 103) and English (Vol. 12) magazines
Updated as of March 8, 2019
