Baguio readies traffic schemes for Panagbenga fest

The Baguio City Police Office – Traffic Enforcement Unit (BCPO-TEU) on Friday announced alternative traffic schemes in preparation for the Panagbenga festivities set on February 24 to 25.

In a statement, BCPO-TEU chief Zacarias Dausen said police personnel will also be deployed in key areas to ensure the smooth flow of vehicles.

“All BCPO personnel will be deployed on full alert during the major events, some in civilian clothing for crowd control and anti-criminality measures and others will man inbound and outbound control points to ensure the continuous flow of vehicles,” the statement read.

One-way traffic will be implemented in Kisad Road for inbound vehicles and Legarda Road for outbound vehicles, while Kalaw Road and North Drive will be used as emergency lanes for nearby hospitals.

Meanwhile, over 3,600 parking slots for vehicles and up to 1,000 slots for motorcycles have been designated within the area.

Public utility vehicles have been allowed to service their routes, with jeepneys extending their services until 10 p.m. and following necessary rerouting schemes for affected loading and unloading sites.

Barangay officials have also been tasked to ensure that all roads are passable right after the parade.

“Visitors and residents alike are advised to take public transportation and leave their vehicles at home or at their accommodation establishments to lessen the volume of traffic, observe the drop-pick-go system and walk around if going to the central business district,” the statement added. —Jiselle Anne Casucian/LDF, GMA Integrated News