ILOILO City – The city government is gearing up for a major traffic shift that could both revive downtown commerce and challenge motorist discipline once the new two-way traffic system is implemented around the redeveloped Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets.
Traffic and Transportation Management Office (TTMO) head Uldarico Garbanzos said the two-way traffic flow — recommended by the City Council’s Committee on Transportation — will enhance mobility and accessibility in the market areas, particularly along Guanco Street and around the Terminal Market.
“The two-way traffic will help maintain mobility and accessibility, especially for vendors and buyers once the markets open,” Garbanzos said, noting that many business owners themselves pushed for the scheme after recognizing its potential to attract more customers and boost local sales.
He explained that under a one-way setup, several stretches of road tend to become idle parking spaces rather than active routes for vehicles and commuters.
The TTMO’s proposal forms part of the city’s broader preparations for the reopening of the P3-billion Public-Private Partnership (PPP) redevelopment of the Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets with SM Prime Holdings.
City officials expect that the combination of modern facilities and improved traffic circulation will reignite economic vibrancy in the heart of the city’s commercial district.
Still, Garbanzos acknowledged that enforcement could be a major hurdle given the prevailing driving habits of many motorists.
To address this, he said the TTMO will declare the surrounding areas of both markets as “traffic discipline zones” to ensure smoother flow and stricter rule enforcement.
“Our goal is to strengthen discipline among motorists and pedestrians by strictly implementing traffic rules around the market areas,” he added.
The TTMO aims to finalize all adjustments before the full reopening of the two modernized public markets by late October or early November this year/PN
