ILOILO City – The reopening of the Ungka flyover gained the support of Mayor Jerry Treñas and Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.
They said it would bring immediate relief to traffic congestion in Barangay Ungka, Jaro district and Barangay Ungka II, Pavia, Iloilo, providing commuters with a smoother and more efficient travel experience during rush hours.
“While funds for complete repairs are not yet available, opening the inner lanes of the flyover to light vehicles will improve the traffic situation in the area. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has also ensured that no more (vertical displacement) in the flyover, and it will be safe,” said Treñas.
Defensor echoed the same, emphasizing the need for a long-term solution to address the flyover’s defects and allow uninterrupted public use.
He revealed his request for a meeting with DPWH Region 6 to obtain the results of the geotechnical investigation by third-party consulting firm Abinales Associates Engineers + Consultants regarding the flyover’s problematic piers 4, 5, and 6.
When asked about accountability, Defensor said, “I cannot answer that because I cannot determine if there was a design fraud. But what’s important to us here is to find a solution immediately, and it’s crucial that this happens.”
The decision to reopen the flyover follows dynamic load tests conducted at the end of August this year, which indicated that the flyover showed no signs of displacement, especially on piers 4, 5, and 6.
On Tuesday morning, Sept. 19, DPWH-6 officer-in-charge, Engr. Sanny Boy Oropel, said, “We expect to open it on either Thursday or Friday. We’ve waited for so long; please bear with us for just one more day.”
Access to the flyover will be restricted to specific times, from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily, ensuring smoother traffic flow during peak periods. Only authorized four-wheeled vehicles, such as traditional jeepneys, modernized units and private vehicles, will be allowed, while motorcycles, bicycles and tricycles will not be permitted.
The installation of an overhead “gantry” will further ensure that only authorized vehicles utilize the flyover.
DPWH-6 has coordinated with the local government unit of Pavia and the Iloilo City Government to deploy traffic enforcers for efficient enforcement.
Additionally, the project contractor, International Builders Corporation, will provide traffic signage and bollards to guide motorists safely./PN
