Council asked for stand on flyovers

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Council has been asked by Mayor Michael Rama to take a stand and act on the pending implementation of two more flyovers in Cebu City that allegedly did not go through consultation with the City Traffic Operations Management.

CITOM made a stand that two more flyovers in Cebu City are not necessary as they believe it will not solve traffic problems.

CITOM and the rest of the members of the Ban-Tal Task Force, including the mayor, instead wrote to the Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways to reconsider the construction of the flyovers and divert the money instead to road widening projects.

The Ban-Tal Task Force wants the DPWH to fund the widening of the Ban-Tal road to solve the traffic congestion in the area.

“I already made a stand that they should instead widen the roads. Now the council ought to be making a stand regarding the matter,” Rama said.

“When I was still a member of the council, I remember that there was a mandate that all major projects must be coordinated with the Local Government Unit concerned and it was clearly reported that CITOM was not consulted,” he added.

Rama said he does not have to talk anymore with Cebu City north district Rep. Rachel del Mar who is pushing for the flyover implementation but he intends to talk personally with DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson.

He said the Regional Development Council, which he is heading, is set to meet with some cabinet members including Singson soon and he will take the opportunity to raise the city’s concern.

“It’s better for him to talk and make a stand,” Rama said.

Last Monday, Del Mar announced the availability of about P1.1 billion for infrastructure projects in the north district of Cebu City.

This amount includes the P600 million for the two flyovers to be constructed in the intersection of M.J. Cuenco Ave. and Gen. Maxilom Ave. and the intersection of Gorordo Ave., Archbishop Reyes Ave. and D. Jakosalem Ext.

The two flyovers have been budgeted under the Annual Budget of DWPH in the region. Each flyover will cost P300 million, of which P150 million is for the construction of the structure and the rest if for the road right-of-way.

Del Mar said she has requested DPWH-7 Director Pedro Herrera Jr. to immediately schedule the public hearing on the plans and specifications of the two flyovers. All stakeholders will be invited. – (FREEMAN)