TRAVELERS and locals have been advised on the Philippines’ most famous and impressive roads that are must-drives for any motoring enthusiast in the country in 2023.
Remitly, who specializes in helping people send money to the Philippines, has researched and revealed five epic highways fit for any motoring fans living or traveling in the Philippines.
They’re an important means of travel all around the world, but taking to the roads can also be a source of joy and inspiration for keen motorists and travelers.
A spokesperson for Remitly said: “We use them to get from A to B, but our road networks can take us through some of the most incredible locations with amazing sights to behold — and some Filipino roads are no exception.
“From the oldest and longest to the highest and most awe-inspiring, we’ve found five of the best highways that really show off what the Philippines has to offer.”
Here are five of the best driving roads in the Philippines:
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Patapat Viaduct. Since it opened in 1986, Patapat Viaduct has become somewhat of a tourist attraction because of the incredible views it offers. As the bridge crosses Pasaleng Bay, motorists can take in the stunning views with water on one side, and the mountains on the other. As you drive over, on a clear day you might even be able to see the islands of Fuga and Calayan in the distance.
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Halsema Highway. Situated within the Cordillera Central range in northern Luzon, Halsema Highway stretches from the city limit of Baguio to the municipality of Bontoc. In 2019, it was officially recognized as the highest road above sea level, rising to 7,400ft at its highest point! As a result, it can offer incredible views of the surrounding scenery.
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The once treacherous Dalton Pass is now a scenic route to take. Dalton Pass, also called Balete Pass, is a zigzag road and mountain pass that joins the provinces of Nueva Ecija and Nueva Vizcaya, in central Luzon island. The pass is named after General James Dalton II, who was killed by a sniper during the Battle of Balete Pass in 1945. If you take a journey through the pass, be sure to look out for the only critically endangered orchid of Nueva Ecija, which is endemic to the Dalton Pass area and wider province!
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Pan-Philippine Highway. Although the Philippines is an archipelago, you can drive through the country thanks to the Pan-Philippines Highway. Also known as the Maharlika Highway, this is a network of roads, expressways, bridges, and ferry services that connect several islands in the Philippines, serving as the backbone of the country’s transport network. Driving non-stop would take you around 24 hours, but there are plenty of amazing sights to explore and see on the way, so make sure you set time aside.
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Colon Street. As the oldest national road in the Philippines which dates back to 1565, Colon Street is an essential landmark in Cebu – the oldest city in the country. It’s also thought to be the shortest national road in the country. Filled with bustling marketplaces, busy theaters, and luxurious shops, this is a must-see destination for any traveler in the Philippines.
