The Jones Bridge
Ermita, Manila
PUBLISHED February 2, 2007
PHOTOS | WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO
I used to sneak up on Jones Bridge to capture stunning sunset shots, but now I make it a point to appreciate its intricate design every time I visit Chinatown or Intramuros. It’s amazing during the day, but it truly shines at night when it’s beautifully lit up.
- Ermita, Manila
Jones Bridge was absolutely breathtaking with its stunning black lamp posts and intricate design. I, like so many other tourists, instantly fell in love with its beauty. When the Manila government made the decision to restore the bridge to its original design, it quickly became a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors alike. Originally constructed in 1876 as Puente España, Jones Bridge serves as a vital connection between the districts of Intramuros and Binondo in Manila. After being tragically destroyed during the war, it was reconstructed in 1919 and given the name of American Legislator William Atkinson Jones, who played a pivotal role in granting legislative autonomy to the Philippines through the Jones Law in 1916.
- Ermita, Manila
I used to sneak up on Jones Bridge to capture stunning sunset shots, but now I make it a point to appreciate its intricate design every time I visit Chinatown or Intramuros. It’s amazing during the day, but it truly shines at night when it’s beautifully lit up.
PHOTOS | WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO
PUBLISHED February 2, 2007
Jones Bridge was absolutely breathtaking with its stunning black lamp posts and intricate design. I, like so many other tourists, instantly fell in love with its beauty. When the Manila government made the decision to restore the bridge to its original design, it quickly became a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors alike. Originally constructed in 1876 as Puente España, Jones Bridge serves as a vital connection between the districts of Intramuros and Binondo in Manila. After being tragically destroyed during the war, it was reconstructed in 1919 and given the name of American Legislator William Atkinson Jones, who played a pivotal role in granting legislative autonomy to the Philippines through the Jones Law in 1916.
Jones Bridge was absolutely breathtaking with its stunning black lamp posts and intricate design. I, like so many other tourists, instantly fell in love with its beauty. When the Manila government made the decision to restore the bridge to its original design, it quickly became a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors alike. Originally constructed in 1876 as Puente España, Jones Bridge serves as a vital connection between the districts of Intramuros and Binondo in Manila. After being tragically destroyed during the war, it was reconstructed in 1919 and given the name of American Legislator William Atkinson Jones, who played a pivotal role in granting legislative autonomy to the Philippines through the Jones Law in 1916.
ABOVE | During the day, Jones Bridge is reflected in Pasig River’s water. At night that reflection becomes even more pronounced due to the lamp posts along its banks and sidewalks.
The construction of the bridge was part of a master plan by Daniel Burnham, who drew inspiration from the Seine River in Paris and the canals of Venice. Filipino architect Juan Arellano took charge of the project and brought it to life with his unique vision.
Jones Bridge was originally a magnificent neo-classical structure, adorned with three arches and two piers reminiscent of the Pont Alexandre III in Paris. At each end of the bridge, statues celebrating motherhood and nationhood stood tall on pedestals, symbolizing the spirit of the Filipino people.
OLD PHOTO | The bridge as it looked before its renovation and transformation into what it is today. The spot has always been a favorite of tourists and photographers for sunset shoots.
Sadly, during the Battle of Manila in 1945, the bridge fell victim to Japanese bombings, and the entire structure crumbled. The statues were shattered into pieces, leaving the bridge in ruins.
But thanks to the dedicated efforts of architects, Jones Bridge has been restored to its former glory. In 1998, architect Conrad Onglao began the restoration, and in 2019, Manila’s Mayor Isko Moreno completed the full restoration, bringing back the bridge’s original charm.
The mayor and his team meticulously installed lamp posts and reinstated the four statues at the bridge ends. The statues were relocated from Rizal Park and the Court of Appeals Compound, with replicas created to replace the ones lost to history. The lamp posts were designed by architect Jerry Acuzar, based on the original ones that had graced the bridge before the devastation of war.
The new lamp posts, designed by architect Jerry Acuzar, are similar enough to the originals that they inspire visions of what Manila must have looked like in those early years before war destroyed so much of the city.
Since its complete restoration, Jones Bridge has become a beloved tourist attraction in Manila. People flock to witness its beauty as the lamps illuminate the bridge during sunset. Afterward, one can take a leisurely stroll through Chinatown and Intramuros, soaking in the rich history and culture.
The black lamps that line the street contrast with, and illuminate, the colorful Filipino-Chinese Friendship Arch—the gateway to Chinatown.
It is truly remarkable to witness the resilience of historic landmarks like Jones Bridge, standing strong and captivating audiences even today. This bridge will forever be a part of Manila’s history, and I highly recommend taking a trip to appreciate its timeless beauty.
The beautiful, intricately designed lamp posts that line the sides of Jones Bridge draw locals and tourists alike to the area during night time hours when they are most brightly illuminated.
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