Manila to Sagada in Just 3 Hours? Game-Changing Airport and Road Projects Set to Transform Travel by 2026!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Exciting developments are underway that promise to revolutionize travel from Manila to Sagada, potentially reducing the journey to just three hours by 2026. This significant improvement is attributed to two major infrastructure projects: the construction of Candon Airport in Ilocos Sur and the development of the Cervantes-Besao-Sagada Road.

Candon Airport: A New Gateway to the North

The Candon Airport project has been making significant strides since its groundbreaking on November 10, 2023. Located on a 50-hectare site near the bypass road in Barangay Calaoan, the airport aims to boost the local economy and serve as a catalyst for regional development. The government allocated ₱270 million from the General Appropriations Act of 2022 for site development and initial construction, including the runway. 

As of early 2025, the site development is progressing well, with the first building construction expected to commence soon. The airport is anticipated to be operational by 2026, providing a new and efficient entry point to Northern Luzon. 

Cervantes-Besao-Sagada Road: Bridging Provinces

Parallel to the airport development, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is advancing the ₱738-million Cervantes-Besao-Sagada Road project. This initiative aims to connect Ilocos Sur to Mountain Province, facilitating smoother travel to Sagada. As of April 2024, 43% of the Ilocos Sur segment was completed, with full completion targeted by 2026. 

The project encompasses the construction of a 2-lane road spanning 11.96 kilometers from Barangay Patungcaleo to Barangay Patiacan in Quirino, Ilocos Sur. It includes concrete pavement, drainage systems, slope protection, and road safety features. Annual funding has been secured since 2020, ensuring steady progress toward the projected completion date.

A Transformative Impact on Travel

Currently, traveling from Manila to Sagada typically takes 11 to 12 hours by road. With the completion of Candon Airport and the Cervantes-Besao-Sagada Road, this travel time could be drastically reduced to approximately three hours. The envisioned route involves a flight from Manila to Candon City, followed by a scenic drive through the newly constructed road directly to Sagada.

This transformation is expected to make Sagada more accessible to tourists and locals alike, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange in the region. The enhanced accessibility will not only benefit tourism but also provide local communities with improved access to markets, healthcare, and education.

Looking Ahead

As these projects progress, stakeholders remain optimistic about meeting the 2026 operational targets. The combined efforts in aviation and road infrastructure development underscore the government's commitment to regional development and improved connectivity.

Travelers and residents can look forward to a future where the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Sagada are just a short journey away, heralding a new era of convenience and opportunity in Northern Luzon.

About "WazzupPilipinas.com"

WazzupPilipinas.com is the fastest growing and most awarded blog and social media community that has transcended beyond online media. It has successfully collaborated with all forms of media namely print, radio and television making it the most diverse multimedia organization. The numerous collaborations with hundreds of brands and organizations as online media partner and brand ambassador makes WazzupPilipinas.com a truly successful advocate of everything about the Philippines, and even more since its support extends further to even international organizations including startups and SMEs that have made our country their second home.