In Basak, Mandaue City: Heavy traffic expected due to drainage rehab

CEBU, Philippines — Starting today, March 4, 2025, motorists and commuters can expect heavy traffic along a portion of the southbound lane in Barangay Basak, according to the Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (TEAM).

This, as a portion of M.C. Briones and J.P. Rizal streets in Barangay Basak will be temporarily closed for the implementation of the third phase of the drainage rehabilitation project in the area.

TEAM Head Hyll Retuya, in an interview with reporters yesterday, March 3, 2025, warned motorists to brace themselves and exercise patience, as traffic congestion is expected in the area, especially during rush hours.

He said that the drainage improvement being undertaken will be the final phase to connect the system from end to end.

The traffic chief admitted that in the morning, traffic is heaviest on the southbound lane, while in the afternoon, congestion shifts to the northbound lane in the area.

“Mangayo ta og dispensa kay kinahanglan ni natong i-implement para pagsulbad sa atong pag baha-baha,” said Retuya.

Retuya likewise assured that the contractor has vowed to complete the drainage works within a month.

The drainage rehabilitation project in Barangay Basak will follow a work schedule from 7 AM to 9 PM, Mondays to Saturdays.

Additionally, Retuya said that to accommodate vehicles during the closure, particularly at the corner of Consuelo Village, half of the northbound lane will temporarily be designated for southbound vehicles.

TEAM has also provided alternative routes to help ease traffic congestion.

“Starting tomorrow sad wala tay ‘no left turn’ diha to give way sa mga motorists as their diversion sa kini nga project,” said Retuya.

Drivers coming from the north and heading toward Cebu City are advised to turn right onto H. Abellana Street at the Canduman intersection, then make a left onto B. Suico Street.

Vehicles traveling on H. Abellana Street toward Mandaue City or Cebu City may take D.S. Suico Street, turn left onto B. Suico Street, proceed straight to P.L. Sanchez Street, and finally turn right onto J.P. Rizal Street to bypass the affected area.

“Akong advice sa tanang motorista, planoha lang gyud inyohang mga lakaw… Ipabilin lang nga bugnaw ang ulo ug ikalma,” said Retuya.

Retuya said that the road closure for drainage system repairs is a necessary measure to resolve persistent flooding in the area during heavy rains. He said that residents in the area endure knee-level flooding during the rainy season.

Drivers passing the route are encouraged to adhere to traffic advisories while businesses and residents in the affected area should prepare for potential delays and adjust their schedules accordingly.

Retuya also said that additional TEAM personnel will be deployed in the area to regulate traffic and minimize disruptions during the construction. — (FREEMAN)