We received another email from Forest Gerdes last week in reaction to our article about the traffic situation in the intersection of Gorordo, Salinas and Nivel Hills or what we simply call the area outside JY Square.
We can’t blame JY for the traffic mess of course, it just so happens to be in the area where traffic rules are violated and traffic lights are not being attended to even if some bulbs are busted.
Here is the email from Forest:
I haven't kept up on your writings, but just read one about the triangle by JY, and must say that you are correct to say that it causes problems. That intersection has many problems. The worst one, at present, is that the left turn light bulb, coming down from the hills, HAS BEEN OUT FOR at least THREE MONTHS!
We all just follow the taxi drivers, who know when to turn left, even though there is no green arrow. We will all be surprised when it returns! Got to stop buying those cheap Chinese bulbs!
Then, of course, the jeepneys in the right lane who are picking up and turning left, across three lanes, making a snarl, don't help.
Now that 31 enforcers are being fired for taking money from the drivers, I understand why you almost never see a jeepney getting a ticket.
Once I suggested to the Mayor's assistant that the installation of an English style traffic circle instead of the triangle might be a good solution to the snarl at that intersection.
Best of luck in your efforts!
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The dismissal of 31 traffic law enforcers and the pending dismissal of 17 more for allegations of extortion is a good sign that the city government is indeed serious about weeding out the corrupt.
On the other hand, the issue also showed that the enforcers are not really earning much for the job, which is prone to temptation.
We, however, believe that even if the salaries of the enforcers are increased, this would not mean an end to corruption.
We need a leader with a strong political will to get things done.
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The traffic authorities of Talisay City are turning a blind eye on the parking of vehicles on the South Coastal Road particularly in the area where there are a line of small restaurants.
During lunch time, there are many vehicles, including several trucks, parked on the road thus impeding the flow of traffic.
Many are wondering if the traffic authorities in Talisay even care about this. One motorist said, “There are Trafcom people in the corner of Rabaya and the Coastal Road. All they have to do is turn their back and they can see the problem.”
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For your comments, complaints and suggestions please feel free to contact us at 2531276 or 2538613 local 237.
You can also send email to nimrod@mozcom.com.