Public warned of traffic near IEC venue

 CEBU, Philippines - Slow-moving traffic is expected along streets near Pope John Paul II Avenue in Mabolo, Cebu City where the 51st International Eucharistic Congress Pavilion is located today until Friday.

Cebu City Transportation Office Executive Director Rey Gealon said Pope John Paul II Avenue would be closed four hours a day while intersecting Cardinal Rosales Avenue would be closed to vehicular traffic five hours a day. The two roads, however, would not be closed at the same time.

He said only IEC-registered vehicles would be allowed to use Pope John Paul II Avenue from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. today until Friday.  Unregistered public and private vehicles should alternative roads during those hours.

He appealed for motorists and commuters to understand and have more patience and consider such as their contribution to the success of the international event the city is hosting.

 “Patience and understanding yet again for the success of the International Eucharistic Congress,” he said, adding that “motorists are advised to take heed to the traffic advisory and to stay away from the roads that are closed.”

Gealon said motorists can take Gorordo Avenue and General Maxilom Avenue, Archbishop Reyes (using the flyover), M.J. Cuenco Avenue, and S. Osmeña Boulevard as alternative roads.

CCTO Operations Chief Jonathan Tumulak also said over 100 buses will be plying Pope John Paul II Avenue and Cardinal Rosales Avenue to ferry delegates from their hotels to the IEC Pavilion, which is located inside the San Carlos seminary compound. — / RHM (FREEMAN)