By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
The controversial Ungka flyover will reopen all four lanes on December 25, 2024, operating 24/7 as planned.
The Department of Public Works and Highways Western Visayas (DPWH-6) clarified that only certain types of vehicles will be allowed to use the flyover.
DPWH-6 Regional Director Sanny Boy Oropel said all vehicles except trailer trucks, prime movers, and motorcycles can access the structure.
Oropel explained that the restriction on trailer trucks is due to their length, not weight.
“When designing bridges, we base it on gross vehicular weight. However, we prohibit trailer trucks because their length makes maneuvering difficult, potentially causing traffic congestion,” he said.
Motorcycles are banned for safety reasons, as improper use of the carriageway poses risks.
Modernized jeepneys, which were previously prohibited, will now be allowed to use the flyover.
Earlier restrictions on modernized jeepneys followed an incident where an overhead gantry collapsed onto a private vehicle.
Local governments in Pavia and Iloilo City will manage monitoring and enforcement to ensure compliance with vehicle restrictions.
Despite ongoing concerns from some motorists, Oropel assured the public that the flyover is safe for full use.
He cited thorough scientific reviews and favorable seismic survey results, including assessments of soil stability and jet grouting used to reinforce the piers.
Daily tests have confirmed improvements in soil density and the structure’s safety after addressing subsidence issues.
The flyover’s reopening ends two years of public anticipation. It was closed two weeks after its initial inauguration due to structural problems, including vertical displacement in some piers.
However, unresolved right-of-way (ROW) issues beneath the flyover remain a challenge.
Oropel admitted that while the ROW for the original design was settled, budget constraints have delayed further road expansion underneath the structure.
“We currently lack appropriations for ROW expansion, so there has been no significant improvement,” he said.
The single-lane road under the flyover has contributed to traffic congestion during peak hours.
Although no proposal for widening the road has been made, Oropel expressed hope that the opening of all four flyover lanes and proper traffic management would ease congestion.
“With effective traffic management, I believe congestion can be minimized. The main issues are the terminal and left-turning vehicles, which traffic strategies can address,” he added.
Meanwhile, Abinales Associates Engineers + Consultants, tasked with evaluating and designing the nearby Aganan flyover, has completed its geotechnical study.
Oropel confirmed that the firm will submit the results to DPWH-6 by December 15.
