CITY Councilor Yevonna Yaccine ‘Yvy’ Emano on Monday urged the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to address redundancies in pedestrian lanes and overpasses, citing safety concerns and inefficiencies.
During the regular session, Emano highlighted an existing resolution prohibiting pedestrian lanes within 20 meters of an overpass to encourage proper use of the elevated crossings.
However, she noted that most overpasses in the city still have nearby pedestrian lanes, which are often preferred by the public for convenience.
“If we will tackle about safety, dili sya safe (passing through pedestrian lanes on the) national highway. Wala man syay speed limit maong daghan gaka disgrasya. Daghan gaka side swipe,” Emano said in her privileged speech.
She also proposed adding roofs to overpasses to provide shelter for pedestrians during extreme weather.
“Kay maski bisa’g init, ulan, makatabok ang atong mga kaigsuonan,” said Emano.
Emano called for additional pedestrian warning signs at crossings to alert motorists and encourage them to reduce speed. She pointed out that stronger pedestrian rules would minimize accidents and save lives.
The report was referred to the Committee on Public Utilities and Infrastructure, as well as DPWH Districts 1 and 2, for further discussion.
Councilor Bernie Esparcia expressed support for Emano’s proposals, pointing out that some overpasses, such as those near Gaisano and Centrio malls, are effectively utilized because pedestrians have no alternative routes due to design constraints.
“Usa nato tan awon sa design nga if ever naa man gyud tay overpass para mapuslan ang overpass and design ana wala gyud choice ang mga tao (sa overpass ra gyud muagi),” Esparcia said.
The council plans to engage the DPWH in future discussions to address these concerns and improve pedestrian safety.
