Traffic scheme set for trucks during APEC

CEBU, Philippines- Following a meeting with concerned truck operators yesterday, the Cebu City Transportation Office will open designated lanes for cargo trucks from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. during the duration of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings here.

“Large trucks can really contribute to traffic congestion… as what we had observed during the APEC dry run last week,” said CCTO Operations Chief Jonathan Tumulak.

However, the plan is still subject to changes, depending on the decision of APEC’s Philippine National Organizing Committee or the Presidential Security Group.

As a temporary designated route, trucks going to Salinas Drive will be allowed to pass Juan Luna Avenue.

Thousands of delegates are expected to move from one hotel to another during the meetings, thus, trucks are restricted from using the ceremonial route for the APEC convoy.

While CCTO executive director, lawyer Rey Gealon, warned that traffic enforcers would apprehend violators of the traffic rerouting plan.

“CCTO needs the cooperation of all stakeholders for the city’s successful hosting of the APEC meetings, especially those who will utilize the roads by and between the venues: Radisson, Marriot, Waterfront and Marco Polo. The roads leading there will have to be cleared,” Tumulak said.

Cement suppliers are concerned their deliveries might be affected by the restrictions, considering that cement will solidify in four hours. They asked that Mayor Michael Rama issue a memorandum on the traffic scheme that they can show to their clients.

The Cebu Truckers Association, Cebu Port Authority, and some stakeholders at the port area are amenable to the 10 p.m. - 5 a.m. operation but expressed worry their customers might not agree to a nighttime or midnight operation. Business establishments share the same sentiment.

“Goodluck sa lahat ng exporters and importers. We will just follow their (APEC organizer) instructions,” said CTAI President Gabby Cruz.

The Hardware Consolidated Cebu is amenable to the initial plan but suggested that it be allowed to operate during the day but with the use of smaller vehicles.

These suggestions, Tumulak said, will have to be endorsed to the mayor for approval.

Airport security

Meanwhile, the Aviation Security Unit-7 warned the public of stricter security at the Mactan Cebu International Airport during the APEC meetings.

Senior Supt. Joselito Salido reminded those going to the airport not to leave their vehicles unattended for a long time.

“Otherwise, in five minutes, it will be forcibly towed or removed at your own expense,” he said, adding, vehicle owners must park their vehicles at designated areas.

“Meron naman tayong  designated area for parking vehicles,” Salido said.

The movements are to ensure a smooth flow of traffic especially at the International Arrival, International Departure, and Domestic Arrival and Domestic Departure areas.

“Nakita ninyo naman, kapag magsusundo kayo ng pasahero, sometimes talagang nagka-clog so in this APEC activity, traffic should be smooth flowing,” he said.

“I really need your cooperation,” Salido said. — MayB. Miasco, Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon and Ma. Fatima R. Secuya/JMO