Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu

CCLEX Beyond the Bridge

More Than Just a Road in Cebu

PUBLISHED September 1, 2022

PHOTOS | WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO

The Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is the Philippines’ longest sea-crossing bridge, connecting Cebu City to the town of Cordova in Mactan. More than just a shortcut, it opens up faster access to emerging tourist spots like the Day-as Boardwalk, Isla Romantica, and 10K Roses Café. With its scenic drive, modern design, and growing significance in local tourism, CCLEX is quickly becoming a must-experience destination itself—not just a way to get from point A to B. It’s convenience, beauty, and progress rolled into one unforgettable ride.

Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into CCLEX Beyond the Bridge with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!

Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to CCLEX Beyond the Bridge. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.

When we talk about Cebu, the first things that come to mind are sinfully good lechon, crystal-clear beaches, and a mix of urban chaos and island calm that somehow just… works. But here’s the thing: Cebu’s landscape isn’t just evolving through its natural beauty or heritage—it’s literally being reshaped by modern marvels like the Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway, or as everyone calls it now, CCLEX.

Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.

Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.

ABOVE: When you think of Cebu, what usually pops into your head are sinfully good lechon, crystal-clear beaches, and that unique blend of urban chaos and island calm that somehow just works—but here’s the thing: Cebu’s landscape isn’t only shaped by its natural beauty or rich heritage; it’s also being transformed by modern wonders like the Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway, better known as CCLEX.

So What Exactly Is CCLEX?

Let’s not get too technical—but here’s what you need to know. Opened in April 2022, CCLEX is the longest sea-crossing bridge in the Philippines, stretching a whopping 8.9 kilometers across the Mactan Channel. It connects Cebu City to the quiet, coastal town of Cordova in Mactan. It’s not just long—it’s tall, sleek, and futuristic-looking, thanks to its stunning cable-stayed design and iconic crosses atop the pylons that light up like stars at night.

The bridge was designed by a Spanish engineering firm and built by a joint venture of some of the country’s most experienced construction companies. It’s a result of years of planning, collaboration, and investment—and it shows.

A Bridge With a View

No kidding—this isn’t just any bridge. It’s an experience. Driving across CCLEX, especially at sunrise or sunset, is a moment. You’ve got the sea flanking both sides, the city skyline behind you, and the open road ahead. There’s a kind of quiet thrill in the air, the kind that makes you roll down the window and just take it in.

ABOVE: Opened in April 2022, the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is the Philippines’ longest sea-crossing bridge at 8.9 kilometers, linking Cebu City to the coastal town of Cordova in Mactan through a sleek, cable-stayed design topped with glowing crosses—an impressive feat designed by a Spanish engineering firm and built by a joint venture of top local contractors after years of careful planning and collaboration.

Why Tourists Should Care

The CCLEX makes travel between Cebu City and Mactan Island so much easier. No more crawling through bridge traffic for over an hour just to catch your flight. Now, you can zip from your resort in Mactan to a dinner date in Cebu IT Park in 20 to 30 minutes—if you’re lucky with traffic, even faster.

But beyond the convenience, here’s the magic: Cordova, the quiet fishing town once overlooked on Mactan’s southeastern tip, is quietly turning into Cebu’s next big thing.

Hidden Gems Now Easier to Reach

Cordova is full of low-key attractions that are finally getting the attention they deserve. There’s the Day-as Boardwalk and Marine Park, a rustic wooden walkway where locals go to breathe and watch the sky change colors. It’s one of those places where time seems to slow down a bit. A short ride from there, you’ll find Isla Romantica—a sandbar that’s as charming as its name suggests. It’s simple, quiet, and only accessible by boat, which adds to its off-the-beaten-path appeal. And of course, there’s the well-loved 10K Roses Café, known for its sea of artificial white roses and romantic seaside ambiance. It’s the kind of spot that Instagram dreams are made of, and now that it’s just a breezy drive away thanks to CCLEX, it’s even easier to include in a quick Mactan detour.

With improved access, more resorts, dive shops, and locally owned eateries are springing up. If you’re the type who likes to get ahead of the crowds and discover spots before they blow up on social media, Cordova is calling.

ABOVE: The CCLEX has made travel between Cebu City and Mactan Island a breeze—no more inching through bridge traffic for over an hour just to make a flight; now, you can get from a beach resort in Mactan to a dinner date in Cebu IT Park in just 20 to 30 minutes (sometimes even faster), and perhaps even more exciting, it’s quietly transforming Cordova—from a sleepy fishing town on Mactan’s southeastern tip—into Cebu’s next big thing.

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Toll Fees & Tourist Tips

Let’s talk logistics. CCLEX is a toll bridge, so you’ll need an RFID tag (EasyTrip or CCLEX RFID). If you’re renting a car, ask the agency if it’s already installed. If you’re taking a Grab or taxi, they’ll handle it—some might charge the toll to your fare, others won’t. Just clarify upfront. And here’s a feel-good bit: the toll you pay helps support local infrastructure and tourism in both Cebu City and Cordova.

What’s Next?

More ramps, more access, more opportunities. A Guadalupe ramp is in the works, with completion expected by 2026. Once open, it will give travelers a more direct access point into the expressway from the south side of Cebu City. That means better traffic flow and more efficient routes across the metro. In short, the CCLEX isn’t just a bridge—it’s Cebu leveling up.

A Little Reminder on Respect

Some concerns have been raised about littering along the coastal parts of the bridge—snack wrappers, plastic bottles, fishing lines. If you’re visiting, be a responsible traveler. Pack your trash, take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints. And maybe, gently remind others to do the same.

Final Thoughts

CCLEX isn’t just a shortcut. It’s a symbol of where Cebu is heading—fast, forward, and fearlessly. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning tourist who thought you’d “seen it all,” this bridge opens up new routes, new views, and new stories.

I’m looking forward to the stories and images leaving a lasting positive impression on you, just as they have on me. Stay connected with us on social media for a weekly exploration of travel assignments and breathtaking visuals. Our focus is on championing local tourism, showcasing small businesses, and honoring the magnificence of the Philippines through the content we curate. Join us in spreading the word by clicking the ‘share’ buttons below. Your support means the world to us.

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