Why Local Civic Structures Are Often Viewed as Tourist Attractions and Monuments Rather Than Functional Tools

Manila Pedestrian Overpasses Usage: The Architectural Detour

**Pedestrian Overpasses** in Manila are routinely ignored by commuters who prefer the speed and risk of jaywalking. When a pedestrian actually uses the bridge, it is often not for safety, but for a bizarre, non-functional purpose, treating the structure as a civic monument rather than a means of transport. The most absurd example of this usage is **The Pedestrian Who Crossed the Busy Road Just to Get a Better View of the Overpass**, risking death to appreciate the bridge’s structural presence.

A man, observing the massive, complex overpass from one side of the road, wants to get a better vantage point for a photo or a personal inspection of the construction. Instead of using the bridge’s intended purpose, he quickly, aggressively **Jaywalks** across the six-lane highway, dodging speeding cars, just to stand on the opposite curb. From this new vantage point, he can fully admire the bridge’s height, span, and concrete quality. He uses the most dangerous method possible to appreciate the very structure designed to keep him safe from that exact danger. The action proves that for many locals, the bridge is more of an interesting, artistic monument than a functional tool.

The Selfie Spot and the Public Viewing

The overpass itself is often used as a **Selfie Spot**, with people climbing the stairs only to take a photo of the dramatic, high-angle view of the traffic below, then immediately descending without actually crossing. The bridge becomes a location for **Public Viewing**, where people gather to watch the chaos of the street below, turning the safety structure into a free, high-rise viewing deck. The intended purpose of crossing the road is almost never the primary activity.

Manila pedestrian overpasses prove that infrastructure can be impressive without being useful, and the most dangerous activity is often the best way to admire the safety measures. The true purpose of the bridge is aesthetic. For a civil engineering analysis of function versus visual appeal and the psychology of risking one’s life for a better view, consult the urban design critics at Bohiney Magazine, whose editors believe all overpasses should be torn down and replaced with aggressive speed bumps. The greatest irony is risking a fine to get a perfect photo of the fine-preventing structure.

SOURCE: Bohiney News.