DPWH seeks exemption from Rama’s road works ban

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Public Works and Highways-7 is seeking an exemption from the order of Cebu City Michael Rama for all road development works in the city to cease starting January 9 to make way for the Sinulog activities.

DPWH-7 Director Ador Canlas said they have coordinated with some city officials in asking for an exemption so they could work even at  night.

He said they intend to work until 4 to 5 in the morning, especially now that they are currently working on V. Rama Avenue and Serging Osmeña Boulevard.

"Of course we understand that because of the many activities, because of Sinulog, there is really a need to suspend (road development works); but we are also looking at completing the projects prior to their timelines," said Canlas during the 888 News Forum at Marco Polo Plaza Hotel yesterday.

"We will be able to catch up with that after Sinulog because we are coming up with a catch-up plan; so that whatever suspended period that we have we will be working overtime so we could catch up," he said.

January 9 is the day the Sinulog 2015 will be launched by the city government.

Rama, though, said that before halting operations, companies or agencies undertaking the road development projects should make sure that these roads are passable.

Road rehabilitation projects, the mayor said, can resume on January 20, or the day after the Sinulog Grand Parade.

He was referring to the ongoing rehabilitation of road sections at the North Reclamation Area, V. Rama Avenue and S. Osmeña Boulevard, among others.-(FREEMAN)