Heavy traffic in first school day of 2015

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Police Office said the first day of school after the Christmas break was generally peaceful, only that traffic was heavy due to the sudden influx of private vehicles in the streets.

Traffic Operations Management Operations Chief Jonathan Tumulak, however, said they were able to manage the heavy traffic even during the peak hours.

“Tanan nag-expect na gyud nga ma-traffic ta kay ting klase na, ting-uli from the province, and ting-trabaho na,” he said.

He particularly mentioned the Banilad-Talamban corridor experiencing heavy traffic from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Tumulak said at least 15 CITOM personnel also manned the area in front of Paradise Valley for better traffic flow since the place is one of the most congested locations during peak hours.

Senior Superintendent Paul Labra II, Police Regional Office-7 Regional Intelligence Division chief, said that though not all schools opened classes yesterday, all units were directed intensify the police presence and to monitor the criminal elements lurking near schools throughout the region.

He has yet to receive any report on the presence of lawless elements as of yesterday, but added that the police would not be lulled into complacency would still continue their monitoring.

“Sa pagkakaron wa pa nadawat nga reports of their confirmed presence sa mga lawless elements but di mokompyansa,” Labra said.

On the other hand, Supt. Romeo Santander, CCPO Intelligence Branch chief, warned that criminals would likely strike after spending their money during Christmas. 

“We made an analysis that before sa Christmas vacation mingaw…. Mangita sila og way para maka-kwarta. Easiest prey ang mga students nga naay gadgets.  Worst case scenario, kon di ihatag ang butang pusilon ang victim. Mao na among gi-anticipate,” he said. 

As to the traffic situation, Tumulak said three lanes were utilized in front of Paradise Valley for vehicles going to the city proper from the Talamban area.

He said this was because more vehicles head downtown from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Tumulak assured CITOM has managed to handle the general traffic situation in the city, as personnel were visible in intersections especially during peak hours.  (FREEMAN)