Centuries old bridge becomes symbol of Tayabas community’s fight against quarrying

By Jay S. Lim Community and officials unite to save the Alitao River and the Puente de Alitao. (JSLPhotography & Tayabas City-ENRO) ...

By Jay S. Lim

Community and officials unite to save the Alitao River and the Puente de Alitao. (JSLPhotography & Tayabas City-ENRO)

TAYABAS CITY, Quezon – The historic Puente de Alitao, a Spanish colonial bridge built in 1793, has become a focal point in the Tayabas community’s determined effort to protect the Alitao River from potential quarrying operations.

This centuries-old structure, the oldest surviving colonial bridge in Tayabas, now stands as a symbol of the residents’ commitment to environmental preservation.



The Puente de Alitao, originally featuring four arches but now boasting two, continues to serve as a vital link between the old town and the población. Its historical significance, dating back to the Spanish colonial period, is undeniable.

"Bridges are important indicators of how a civilization grows and cultures are enriched," stated local historian Maria Elena Santos. "The Puente de Alitao is a tangible connection to our ancestors, a reminder of their ingenuity and resilience."

Tayabas, which served as the provincial capital from 1749 to 1946, is rich in Spanish colonial architecture, including other notable bridges like Puente de Reina Isabel II and Puente de San Francisco de Asís.

However, the tranquility of the Alitao River, the lifeblood of the region, is now under threat. Concerned citizens, organized under the Mamamayan Laban sa Quarry (MLQ) movement, led by Barangay Chairmen Amiel Romana (Lalo), Abelido Cuarto (Alitao), and Rommel C. Lado (Ipilan), along with the active participation of the Church and civil society organizations like KAAKBAY-Quezon, TAPAT Kalikasan, and Tanggol Kalikasan, have rallied to protect the river.

In a decisive move last February 25, 2025, the Barangay Councils of Lalo, Alitao, and Ipilan have jointly approved an ordinance declaring the Alitao River a Critical Watershed and Ecotourism Zone. This action is a direct response to the threat of quarrying, which residents fear would irreversibly damage the river’s ecosystem and the historic bridge.

“The Joint Ordinance is rooted in the strong opposition of residents to proposed quarrying activities, which they believe would severely damage the Alitao River,” stated Barangay Lalo Captain Amiel Romana.

Senior Environmental Management Specialist Roan Pabilonia of the Tayabas City Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) emphasized the ordinance’s long-term goals. “The ordinance aims to provide lasting protection for the river, ensuring its natural resources are preserved for future generations of Tayabasin residents,” she said.

Atty. Sai Tolentino, a Staff Lawyer from Tanggol Kalikasan, who facilitated the process with the City ENRO, highlighted the ordinance’s broader impact.

“This Joint Ordinance lays the essential foundation for the establishment of an Eco-Tourism Council,” Atty. Tolentino explained.

“The council will be responsible for managing the Eco-Tourism Zone, promoting sustainable economic opportunities while safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Alitao River.” he added.

The Puente de Alitao, therefore, stands not just as a historical monument but as a symbol of the community’s unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship. Local authorities and residents are working together to ensure the preservation of this vital cultural and ecological heritage.

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Jay S. Lim's Contact information:(0968) 851 7043 Email Address:estacioslimjr@gmail.com