DPWH-6 reiterates Ungka Flyover is ‘safe’ for use; reopening eases traffic congestion

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-6) reiterated that the Ungka Bridge, which was found to be sinking, is “safe” for use.

The inner lanes of the controversial flyover was reopened to light four-wheeled vehicles on Friday, Sept. 22.

DPWH-6 OIC regional director Sanny Boy Oropel said there is nothing to worry about the safety of commuters and motorists passing through the 453.7-meter flyover.

The P680-million structure was closed to traffic in September last year due to vertical displacement.

According to Oropel, since January 2023, there was no additional vertical movement observed.

“After continuous monitoring, there was no additional vertical displacement observed since January 2023 after the jet grouting was introduced by the contractor,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Public Safety and Transportation Management Office (PSTMO) observed a significant improvement in the traffic situation in Barangay Ungka, Jaro district, Iloilo City and Barangay Ungka II, Pavia, Iloilo province.

Jeck Conlu, head of the city government’s PSTMO, said traffic congestion in the area was relieved by 50 to 80 percent.IMT