CEBU Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia has ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) - Cebu 2nd District Office and its contractors to stop all their widening projects along the southern highway, particularly in San Fernando town, until impeding structures, like electrical posts, are removed.
The governor gave the order on Monday, Feb. 26, 2024, during a meeting at the Capitol in Cebu City with contractors and representatives of the DPWH - Cebu 2nd District, headed by District Engineer Leslie Anthony Molina.
“In her frequent travels around the province, Gov. Gwen is very much aware of the worsening traffic situation along the southern highway, particularly in San Fernando, due to DPWH-funded road widening and concreting works,” the Capitol Public Information Office said in a statement.
Garcia pointed out that the posts situated within areas of active road construction projects endanger people.
The Capitol said these areas are the primary choke points along the national highway in San Fernando, located from the public market intersection (near 7-Eleven), down a narrow two-lane bridge, and to a nearby cement plant.
Garcia said any preparations for widening must stop immediately until DPWH and its contractors can remove any obstacles in the areas that need to be widened.
Garcia emphasized the need for proper coordination and consultation with the Provincial Government going forward.
She added that DPWH needs to have a clear traffic plan on its road projects to avoid causing inconvenience to motorists.
The governor is scheduled to meet with utility companies to expedite the removal of unremoved posts from sections of roads that the DPWH will widen.
She emphasized that the local economy is losing millions due to traffic congestion on these road upgrades, and the riding public has been affected. / TPT