By IME SORNITO and MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – Drivers and commuters breathed a sigh of relief as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 opened the Ungka flyover in Barangay Ungka II, Pavia, Iloilo, to full capacity on Monday, December 23.
The long-awaited move came after more than two years since the flyover’s initial partial opening in September 2022.
Public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers, such as Jenner Camarig, who has been driving the Ungka-CPU route for over 30 years, expressed optimism over the flyover’s full operation.
“This will greatly help ease traffic. We no longer need to pass under the flyover, which used to cause long delays,” said Camarig.
The Ungka flyover stretches from Barangay Ungka, Jaro, Iloilo City to Barangay Ungka II, Pavia. Straddling the major intersection of the Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue and President Corazon Aquino Avenue in Barangay Ungka II, it is meant to ease traffic congestion in this crucial point that leads in and out of Iloilo City.
Camarig noted that travel times are now faster, benefiting both drivers and passengers.
The newly opened flyover accommodates all types of vehicles except dump trucks, transit mixers, wing vans, trailer trucks, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycles.
Camarig, who has confidence in the structural integrity of the flyover, said he had observed the diligent efforts of the contractor, International Builders Corporation (IBC), in reinforcing the structure during repairs.
“I’m thankful to the DPWH for opening the flyover. It makes our trips more comfortable,” he added.
Lorenzo Cariño, a driver of a modernized jeep serving the Ungka-Diversion (SM City Highway) route, echoed similar sentiments. He highlighted the reduced traffic congestion and its timely opening during the holiday season.
“This ensures students and employees won’t be late for school or work. I’m not worried about the flyover’s safety because of the contractor’s thorough work,” said Cariño.
Other drivers, such as Reynante Geronimo and Joemer Aurilo, noted the improved turnaround times and reduced passenger frustration.
“Traffic under the flyover used to be terrible. Now, our trips are faster, and passengers no longer feel stressed,” said Geronimo.
Aurilo expressed gratitude for the early opening before Christmas, saying, “It’s great that they prioritized this, ensuring smoother traffic during the holidays.”
For Bernard Hinlo, a driver of the CPU-Ungka route, the flyover’s full operation signals better income prospects.
“Our routes are now smoother and less stressful. If our trips are efficient, our earnings improve,” said Hinlo, adding that he appreciates the DPWH’s efforts to address the flyover’s previous issues.
Passengers also welcomed the development. Arlene, a commuter from Pavia, Iloilo, shared her relief at the flyover’s opening. “Before, traffic was unbearable, especially for us commuters. Now, it’s much better, and I hope the flyover remains fully operational,” she said.
With the full opening of the Ungka flyover, many hope it will permanently resolve the area’s traffic bottlenecks and enhance travel convenience for both drivers and passengers./PN