The Ysalina Bridge in Cagayan de Oro, originally known as the Cagayan Steel Bridge, bears a historical marker commemorating its post-World War II reconstruction. Installed after the bridge was rebuilt, the inscription reads:
“RESTORED UNDER THE U.S. PHILIPPINE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1946 BY THE UNITED STATES BUREAU OF PUBLIC ROADS AND THE PHILIPPINE BUREAU OF PUBLIC WORKS.”
Here’s a closer look of the small marker found on the bridge. You can still read the text.
Below are AI-enhanced images of the said marker revealing the text.
Previously known as Carmen Bridge, the structure serves as a vital link connecting Cagayan de Oro’s downtown area to the western side of the Cagayan de Oro River, particularly Barangay Carmen. Over the years, it has remained an important link between the city center and the western area.
The original steel bridge was completed in 1931 but was destroyed in 1942 by retreating forces to slow down the Japanese advance during World War II. Photo below shows the bridge’s inauguration.
Here’s an old aerial photo of Cagayan showing the steel bridge that was destroyed during the war.
It was later rebuilt under Governor Paciencio Ysalina through funds from the U.S. Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946. In later years, the bridge was named in his honor.
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