Stakeholders consultation today

CEBU, Philippines - Four days after Mayor Michael Rama implemented without consultation a no-left-turn policy at the Banilad-Talamban road and other thoroughfares, the Cebu City government will today meet concerned agencies and affected residents.

Rama is expected to convene affected stakeholders, University of San Carlos-Talamban and University of Cebu owners and/or representatives, residents, and Department of Public Works and Highways and Cebu City Traffic Operations Management officials at the Cebu City Hall Social Hall 9 a.m. today.

The public are also welcome to join the meeting so that their grievances would be heard.

Interviewed yesterday, Rama declined to say the points to be discussed in today’s meeting except that it is a consultation on the traffic problem at the Banilad-Talamban area.

CITOM has already modified the traffic scheme in the area after hearing the sentiments of motorist and the commuters. The no-left-turn policy would last until next week.

Rama said he was planning to issue an executive order to institutionalize the policy in designated areas of the north corridor to address the worsening traffic situation there. 

Also yesterday, CITOM Executive Director Rafael Yap said they have added u-turn slots for the convenience of all.

He said vehicles coming from Talamban, Banilad and Gaisano Country Mall can now turn left at the Paradise Village area instead of driving further to Juan Luna Ave in Mabolo to make a U-turn.

Since the USC-Talamban PUJ stop has already been closed for embarking and disembarking passengers, Yap advised commuters to do so in front of Zubuchon-Talamban, which is just 100 meters from the school

In the meantime, the nearby Shell station is used as an interim jeepney pocket stop.

Yesterday, Rama, Vice Mayor Edgardo Labella, CITOM Operations Chief Joy Tumulak and Ban-Tal Task Force head Bunny Pages again traversed Archbishop Reyes Avenue and Governor Mariano Avenue to check the flow of traffic there.  (FREEMAN)