Barely Opened: P2B Camalaniugan–Aparri Bridge vandalized within 24 hours

Cagayan, Philippines – Barely a day after its inauguration on January 8, 2026, the P2-billion Camalaniugan–Aparri Bridge has already been vandalized, with unidentified individuals leaving graffiti on the newly opened structure, particularly on the railings. The incident has sparked public outrage over the defacement of a landmark project meant to boost regional connectivity.

The vandalism has raised concerns among residents and netizens over the lack of discipline among some individuals. In photos posted by local media, the words “People’s money” and “Poetic justice,” among others, can be seen written in black marker, standing out against the bridge’s white-colored railings.

Several netizens expressed disappointment toward those responsible, saying the act reflects a lack of discipline and respect for public resources.

“Diyan natin makikita ang character ngayon ng mga tao, lalo na ng mga kabataan. Hindi man lahat, pero karamihan—yes, freedom of information, pero kulang na sa disiplina. Hindi na ito kagalingan kundi kawalan ng integridad sa buhay. Alam naman natin na people’s money ‘yan; hindi naman sinabing pera ng gumawa o nagpagawa,” one commenter said.

“Ayna apo aya, di na lang kayo magpasalamat na may mga magagamit ang bawat isa sa atin. Malaking bagay ito para sa lahat. Mahalin natin ang mga bagay na napapakinabangan natin at huwag namang ganyan ang ginagawa ninyo,” another wrote.

Meanwhile, Cagayan Vice Governor Manuel Mamba addressed the issue in a post on his official Facebook page, saying: “Huwag mag-vandalize ng pampublikong ari-arian. Bawat pintura at pagkukumpuni ay galing sa pera ng bayan—ang buwis na binabayaran natin. Igalang ang mga proyektong para sa ating lahat.”

The bridge, which connects the towns of Camalaniugan and Aparri in Cagayan, is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two areas. The structure has a total length of 1,580 meters and can support a maximum load of up to 45 tons.

Residents have urged the public to respect the infrastructure, emphasizing its role in boosting local commerce, transportation, and tourism. Authorities have also appealed to anyone with information about the vandals to come forward to help in the investigation.