TAYABAS CITY – The ancient stones of the Puente de Alitao, a 1793 Spanish colonial bridge, now resonate with more than just the echoes of history. They reverberate with the fervent prayers and determined footsteps of Tayabas residents and leaders united in a "LAKAD-DASAL PARA SA KALIKASAN, KATOTOHANAN; KATARUNGAN: AT KALAYAAN" (Walk-Prayer for Nature, Truth, Justice, and Freedom), led by the Mamamayan Laban sa Quarry (MLQ) of Tayabas.
This historic bridge, the oldest of its kind in Tayabas, stands as a silent witness to a growing environmental battle. Once a vital link connecting the old town to the población, the Puente de Alitao now serves as a focal point for the community's resistance against encroaching quarrying operations that threaten the lifeblood of their region, the Alitao River.
Constructed under Don Diego Urbano, the bridge's two remaining arches, remnants of its original four, now overlook a river declared a Critical Watershed and Ecotourism Zone by the Barangay Councils of Lalo, Alitao, and Ipilan. This declaration is a direct response to the community's unwavering opposition to quarrying, a movement championed by the MLQ.
"Bridges are important indicators of how a civilization grows and cultures are enriched," says local historian Maria Elena Santos. "The Puente de Alitao is not just a historical structure; it's a symbol of our community's resilience, now more than ever, as we fight to protect our environment."
Tayabas, once the capital of Tayabas Province (now Quezon), is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, including the Puente de Reina Isabel II and Puente de San Francisco de Asís. However, the tranquility of these historical landmarks is now punctuated by the MLQ's "LAKAD-DASAL," a powerful demonstration of faith and determination.
The "LAKAD-DASAL PARA SA KALIKASAN, KATOTOHANAN, KATARUNGAN, AT KALAYAAN" is more than just a protest; it's a spiritual and communal act, a plea for the preservation of the Alitao River and the historical integrity of the Puente de Alitao.
The MLQ's efforts highlight the community's deep-seated fear that quarrying will irreversibly damage the river's ecosystem and the bridge that stands as a testament to their heritage.
As the weathered stones of the Puente de Alitao witness the passionate demonstrations, they become a symbol of the enduring spirit of Tayabas. The bridge, now more than ever, represents a bridge between the past and the present, a tangible link to a community determined to safeguard its natural and cultural heritage for future generations. Local authorities and the MLQ continue to work together, their voices echoing across the Alitao River, demanding environmental justice and the preservation of their beloved bridge.