Angeles City experienced a massive 18-hour traffic gridlock on Thursday, December 12, 2024, caused by a combination of multiple vehicle accidents, ongoing road construction, and the Christmas rush. The traffic congestion began in the morning and continued late into the night, disrupting commuters and residents across the city. According to Kiko Pangilinan, Officer-in-Charge of the Angeles City Traffic Development Office (ACTDO), the worst delays were along the historic McArthur Highway, from Dau in Mabalacat City to the boundary between Angeles City and San Fernando.
The traffic was compounded by several accidents throughout the day, with incidents occurring from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. the following morning. Pangilinan confirmed that these accidents, including collisions between private vehicles and tricycles, as well as motorcycle crashes, caused significant traffic jams. The closure of the Abacan Bypass Road due to ongoing construction by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), scheduled from December 6 to January 6, also worsened the situation, as it left no alternative routes for motorists.
Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. responded to the crisis by deploying more traffic and emergency personnel to handle the situation. The holiday rush added another layer of complexity, as many residents took to the roads for shopping and preparations for Christmas. The city’s business districts, particularly those around SM Clark and SM Telabastagan, saw an influx of shoppers, further increasing the volume of traffic.
Pangilinan highlighted that the increased number of vehicles, along with the simultaneous Christmas parties, contributed to the heavy congestion. He apologized for the inconvenience caused and urged the public to remain patient and cooperative during the holiday season. He also acknowledged that similar traffic issues were likely to continue in the coming days as the holiday festivities and shopping activities intensify.
The accidents throughout the day and evening disrupted traffic flow at various key locations in Angeles City. In the morning, incidents were reported on Friendship Highway, Diegs Rotonda, and near La Pieta in Barangay Pulungbulu. Afternoon accidents involved collisions and self-accidents at the Balibago roundabout and along Malabanias Road. The evening saw more accidents, including motorcycle and vehicle collisions along Fields Avenue and Diegs Rotonda.
The ACTDO urged the public to stay informed through social media updates and radio announcements about road conditions. They also recommended using public transportation to alleviate the pressure on the city’s roads. Pangilinan emphasized the importance of road discipline, cooperation, and understanding during the holiday season to help ease traffic congestion.
As the holiday season continues, the ACTDO expressed its commitment to improving traffic management in the city, despite the challenges posed by ongoing construction and increased vehicle volume. They reassured the public that efforts to improve traffic flow are ongoing and thanked everyone for their patience as they navigate the busy streets of Angeles City.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
