Angeles City faced significant traffic disruptions on December 12, 2024, as the heavy flow of vehicles caused widespread congestion throughout major roads in the area. According to a statement released by the Angeles City Traffic Development Office (ACTDO), the traffic situation was exacerbated by several factors, including multiple road accidents, ongoing construction projects, and the holiday rush. These elements combined to create long delays for commuters and motorists during both morning and evening peak hours.
One of the key contributors to the congestion was a series of accidents along key roads in the city. ACTDO reported that at least three separate incidents occurred on major thoroughfares, particularly along MacArthur Highway and the nearby diversion roads. These accidents not only caused traffic blockages but also delayed emergency response teams as they worked to clear the scene. The office urged motorists to remain cautious and patient as the accidents were being addressed.
Another significant factor affecting traffic flow was the ongoing roadworks in several parts of Angeles City. The ACTDO stated that construction projects aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure had narrowed lanes, forcing traffic to flow more slowly. The construction near the SM Clark area, in particular, created bottlenecks that added to the already heavy traffic in the area. With only limited alternate routes available, many drivers were forced to wait for extended periods.
In addition to the accidents and construction work, the holiday season contributed to the influx of vehicles on the roads. The Christmas season has traditionally brought higher traffic volumes in Angeles City, as people from neighboring provinces and regions travel to the city for shopping, events, and family gatherings. This seasonal traffic surge further compounded the challenges faced by the ACTDO in managing the city’s roads.
ACTDO officials have been working to mitigate the congestion by deploying additional traffic personnel and coordinating with local law enforcement. Traffic management strategies, such as adjusting traffic signal timings and directing motorists to less congested areas, were implemented in an attempt to ease the flow of traffic. Despite these efforts, the combination of accidents, construction, and increased vehicle numbers led to delays that lasted for several hours.
As part of their statement, the ACTDO also reminded the public to stay updated on road conditions through social media channels and radio announcements. Motorists were advised to consider alternate routes and to avoid the heavily congested areas if possible. Additionally, public transportation was encouraged for those traveling within the city to reduce the number of vehicles on the roads.
The ACTDO concluded its statement by assuring the public that they were doing everything in their power to resolve the traffic situation as quickly as possible. They also expressed gratitude for the patience of motorists and commuters, acknowledging that the city’s infrastructure challenges are ongoing but that improvements are in the works. While the heavy traffic on December 12, 2024, was a temporary setback, the ACTDO remains committed to enhancing the flow of traffic in the future.
Source: Angeles City Information Office