ILOILO City — All traffic personnel have been deployed across Iloilo City to safeguard thousands of students returning to school today amid an expected surge in traffic volume.
The Traffic and Transportation Management Office (TTMO) placed its entire force on full alert, with enforcers stationed in major school zones, pedestrian crossings, loading and unloading areas, and key intersections under the city’s Oplan Balik Eskwela 2026 campaign.
TTMO head Uldarico Garbanzos said personnel have been strategically deployed in areas expected to experience congestion, particularly along General Luna Street and school zones in La Paz and Molo districts.
“All our traffic enforcers are on full alert for the opening of classes. We will focus on areas with large numbers of students and roads where heavy traffic is expected to ensure the safety of children and the smooth flow of traffic,” Garbanzos said.
He said the city is prioritizing student safety as classes resume.
“We should slow down when driving, give priority to students crossing the road, and avoid reckless driving. We all need to work together to ensure a safe opening of classes,” he stressed.
TTMO reminded motorists to observe speed limits, yield to pedestrians, avoid overloading vehicles, ensure roadworthiness, and refrain from using mobile phones while driving.
Students and commuters were advised to use designated loading and unloading areas, follow traffic signs, and remain alert when crossing roads. Parents and guardians were likewise urged to reinforce road safety practices and avoid actions that could obstruct traffic near schools.
“Safety is everyone’s responsibility. If motorists, students, and parents work together in following traffic rules, our Oplan Balik Eskwela will be safer and more orderly,” Garbanzos said.
The TTMO said heightened monitoring will remain in effect throughout the first week of classes to ensure smooth traffic flow and student safety citywide./PN
