Vehicle traffic in Talisay heavier as annual feast draws near

CEBU, Philippines - Motorists are warned of heavier vehicle traffic in Barangay Poblacion, Talisay City as the city kicks off activities for the annual feast for its patron saint Teresa de Avila.

City Police Station officer-in-charge Supt. Resty Santos said traffic has become heavier since the opening salvo last October 1. The annual feast is on October 15, 2013.

Santos told The Freeman that vendors on the side of the road in Barangay Poblacion have also contributed to the slow movement of vehicles. In fact, some vendors have reportedly blocked the gate of the church.

Parishioners flock the church every night for the novena leading to the feast day.

Santos said it is ideal, at least for smoother flow of vehicle traffic, if the vendors will be stationed in an area that is farther from the main road. However, the city government has allowed the vendors to put up stalls along the main road in Poblacion as long as owners pay for a permit to sell.

The best the police can do, Santos said, is to be always on alert especially in crowded areas.

Earlier, Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante, over-all chairman of the celebration, said the city has decided to make activities more simple and meaningful this time year.

The lineup includes, among others, sports games like basketball and boxing and entertainment activities like a dance contest and evenings for the youth, barangays and non-government organizations. Villarante said more activities might be added but what is confirmed is that the Halad Inasal and Mardi Gras will push through on October 15.

It was in 2001 when former mayor Eduardo Gullas established the Inasal Festival to pay tribute to the city’s popular lechon.

Each roasted pig that is included in the parade will be dressed in various costumes and prettified with decorations. –/JMO (FREEMAN)