By Alethea Gene Maghanoy, and
Asnairah Paudac
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Thousands of commuters, shoppers, and vendors passing through Cogon Public Market are being urged to prepare for possible traffic delays as the city implements new jeepney routes alongside the ongoing ₱12.4-million wastewater project near Cogon and Carmen markets.
The wastewater treatment facility, part of the city’s environmental compliance program under the CDO-RISE Agenda, aims to improve sanitation by treating market wastewater before it reaches nearby waterways.
But while the project promises long-term public health benefits, construction activities are already affecting traffic flow in one of the city’s busiest commercial hubs.
At the same time, the Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP), which reorganized 61 public transport routes across the city, continues to reshape jeepney travel patterns around Cogon.
Drivers report mixed traffic impact
Public utility drivers said the construction’s impact depends largely on their routes.
Jeepney driver Jeffrey Pacala said some routes remain manageable because they avoid the affected roads.
“Dili ra kaayo maapektuhan amoang ruta kay sa Ororama man mi moagi,” he said, adding that jeepneys traveling from Carmen to Cogon are more likely to experience congestion.
Taxi driver Darwin Montere said traffic near Cogon has worsened during peak hours, especially for passengers heading directly into the market area.
“Naa gyud epekto kay ma-traffic,” Montere said. However, he noted that taxi drivers can still avoid delays by using alternative roads since they are not limited to fixed routes.
Commuter survival guide
City commuters are advised to plan trips early and familiarize themselves with updated LPTRP routes and loading areas.
Passengers traveling through Cogon should expect slowdowns during busy market hours and allow extra travel time, especially on routes connecting the city's eastern and western districts.
Motorists may also use alternative thoroughfares outside the market area when congestion builds up.
Authorities are urging the public to follow temporary traffic signs and instructions from traffic personnel whenever construction work affects vehicle movement or pedestrian access.
Vendor survival guide
Market vendors are also encouraged to stay updated on construction schedules and temporary access adjustments inside the market.
Please coordinate with market administrators on delivery schedules and designated access points to avoid disruptions.
Scheduling deliveries during off-peak hours may help reduce delays caused by construction equipment operating within the market vicinity.
Vendors may also inform customers through social media posts or signage about temporary changes in entrances and access routes.
Despite the temporary inconvenience, city officials said the wastewater facility is expected to improve sanitation conditions and create a cleaner market environment for both vendors and consumers.
For now, authorities said preparation, patience, and staying informed remain the best ways for commuters and vendors to avoid unnecessary disruption while the city upgrades its transport and public market systems.
