FEATURE: A Long Time Dream: Balbalan Mayor Malannag grateful for realization of P85M Poswoy Bridge

Balbalan, Kalinga – For decades, the people of Poswoy crossed rivers with caution and endured long, difficult travel just to reach the main road. What was once a daily challenge is now a story of hope fulfilled.

On February 23, the long-awaited ₱85-million Poswoy Bridge was officially inaugurated and turned over to the community — marking what Mayor Almar Malannag described as the realization of a long-time dream of the iBalbalans, especially residents of Poswoy, Ab-abaan, and Dao-angan.

The 45-meter bridge, designed to last at least 50 years, now stands as a symbol of connection, progress, and peace-driven development in the upland municipality.

The inauguration ceremony was led by Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Carlito Galvez Jr., Governor James Edduba, Mayor Malannag, and Vice Mayor Regina Munda Cruz — underscoring strong collaboration between the national and local governments.

Funded by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) through the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program, the project reflects the national government’s continuing commitment to bring inclusive development to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

In his address, Malannag highlighted how the bridge transforms everyday life for the iBalbalans.

“This bridge has been a long-time dream and was made possible by OPAPRU, our Governor, and the resilience of the people of Poswoy. It is a testament to the far-reaching support of our National Government in strengthening the delivery of local services,” he said.

Beyond shortening travel time, the bridge ensures safer passage for farmers transporting their produce, students heading to school, and families accessing essential services. What once required patience, risk, and extra hours on rough terrain can now be done with greater ease and security.

Malannag expressed gratitude to both the national and provincial governments for making the project a reality. He also called on residents to take pride in and safeguard the bridge — a structure that not only connects communities to the main road but also connects dreams to opportunities.