BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – An estimated 17,000 supporters are expected to participate in a foot parade and caravan today organized by Team Uswag in line with their filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs).
The event, which is anticipated to cause significant traffic disruptions, has led the Transport and Traffic Management Office (TTMO) to announce several road closures and a rerouting plan.
TTMO head Uldarico Garbanzos confirmed that the Iloilo City Council had granted permission for the road closures, which will begin at noon today.
“Due to the rerouting plan, we expect moderate to heavy traffic congestion, particularly in the City Proper, with potential ripple effects in Molo and La Paz,” Garbanzos said.
The road closures will affect 16 local public transport routes, including:
* Obrero – Lapuz – City Proper
* Villa Plaza – City Proper via Calumpang
* Ungka – City Proper via CPU
* Ungka – City Proper via Benigno Aquino Avenue (BAA)
* Festive Walk – City Proper via BAA
* Compania – City Proper
* Parola – SM City via Infante
* Mohon – City Proper
* Buntatala – Tagbak – City Proper
* Ticud – La Paz – City Proper
* Mandurriao – City Proper via BAA
* Hibaoan – City via Tabukan
* Molo – City Proper via Baluarte
* Villa Baybay – City Proper
* Tagbak – City Proper via Coastal Road
* Bitoon – City Proper via La Paz
The TTMO is advising residents to stay updated through their social media channels regarding road closures and alternative routes.
Garbanzos also urged the public to conduct business in the downtown area early to avoid the expected traffic congestion.
Authorities are working to minimize the inconvenience to the public while ensuring the smooth execution of the event./PN
