Detour road for trucks in Mandaue

CEBU, Philippines — The 1.5-kilometer Umapad–Paknaan detour road is expected to open this month to accommodate trucks and prime movers that has caused traffic congestion at the UN Ave. and D.M Cortes intersection in Mandaue City.

The entry point of this detour road is located at the base of the Marcelo Fernan Bridge on the Mandaue side, directly across Wilcon Depot.

Trucks will be able to pass on that area and exit on to DM Cortes Street which leads to Cansaga Bridge.

The Umapad-Paknaan detour road is foreseen to be a positive step towards addressing traffic congestion in Mandaue City.

With a dedicated route for trucks and implementing strategic traffic management measures, the Capitol, with the help of local authorities, aims to improve overall transportation efficiency and enhance the commuting experience for residents and motorists in the area.

“Let us show to them that this roundabout will work, and dako kaayo ang factor ani if we can lessen the traffic problem in that area,” said Governor Gwen Garcia in a meeting recently with key stakeholders.

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)-7 director Eduardo Montealto Jr., and Land Transportation Office (LTO)-7 director Glen Galario were in the said meeting, along with Department of Public Work and Highways officials, Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue, cargo handling provider OPASCOR, Federation of Ecozone Service Providers, and PEZA.

The Umapad–Paknaan detour road is part of the preparations for the full-scale implementation of the roundabout at the UN Avenue and DM Cortes intersection according to the Capitol’s official news network, Sugbo News.

Currently, the specific road is undergoing clearing operations and road asphalting to ensure it is ready for use.

Once the detour will be opened, trucks will no longer be permitted to navigate the roundabout, ensuring a smoother flow of traffic for lighter vehicles passing through the intersection.

Along with this, Governor Gwen Garcia stressed the importance of adhering to the guidelines outlined in her Executive Order No. 2 Series of 2021, which sets a schedule for truck operators regarding the release and pull-out of cargo from the Cebu International Port.

According to the EO, cargo operations at the port will be limited to the hours of 9 pm to 5 am, seven days a week. — (FREEMAN)