Cordillera - The Nabenngan Footbridge, also known as the "Peace Bridge," stands as a powerful symbol of reconciliation and community transformation in Sadanga, Mountain Province. This 320-meter long suspension footbridge, which connects various remote barangays like Nabenngan, Napoyowan, Fagwang, and Ogging, was not merely a project of infrastructure but a representation of the region's shift from conflict to peace.
The bridge's inception traces back to January 8, 2021, when the groundbreaking ceremony was held. The construction was made possible through generous donations from several government agencies and stakeholders, including funds raised by the men and women of the Police Regional Office Cordillera (PROCOR). However, its true significance goes beyond just the physical bridge.
The bridge symbolizes the transformation of Sadanga from a place marked by insurgency and armed conflict to one where the community actively embraces peaceful development and dialogue. The late Mayor Gabino P. Ganggangan explained that the idea of the footbridge emerged as part of the community development program that was inspired by the shift from armed struggle to peaceful negotiations with the government. This change was a pivotal moment in Sadanga's history, and the footbridge emerged as a lasting testament to the people’s commitment to peace.
The community's efforts in fostering peace were recognized by PROCOR under the leadership of PBGEN Rwin Pagkalinawan, who helped raise Php 4.1 million through the “Sadanga Footbridge Challenge.” This challenge mobilized various individuals, government officials, and organizations to support the construction, reflecting the widespread backing for the peace process in the region.
After more than a year of construction, the Nabenngan Footbridge was formally inaugurated on April 29, 2022. The event was a historic occasion attended by key figures such as PROCOR Regional Director PBGEN Ronald O. Lee, Director Albert A. Mogol of the Office of Civil Defense-CAR, Mt. Province PPO Provincial Director PCOL Ruben Andiso, and the Municipal Mayor of Sadanga, Hon. Albert T. Ayao-ao. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Director Mogol and Mayor Ayao-ao, while PBGEN Lee unveiled the ceremonial marker, marking the official opening of the bridge.
The bridge’s completion was not only a milestone for the local infrastructure but also a boon for the farmers and commuters of the area. It serves as a vital pathway for residents of remote barangays and provides an alternate route during the rainy season when main roads may be impassable. Its role in facilitating easier access to markets, health services, and education underscores its importance in the everyday lives of the community.
In essence, the Nabenngan Footbridge, or Peace Bridge, stands as a lasting symbol of the people’s journey from armed conflict to peace, offering a literal and metaphorical pathway toward a more prosperous and harmonious future. It is a reminder of what can be achieved through unity, dialogue, and commitment to peace, making it much more than just a bridge—it is a monument to hope and resilience.