Heavy traffic ahead due to Magallanes repair works

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is reminding motorists about the expected traffic jams in the southern part of the capital due to repair works on the Magallanes Interchange.

The rehabilitation of the 39-year-old interchange is scheduled to start Friday, May 30.

But a change of date is still possible after MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino met with officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways on Wednesday to ask them to submit a compressed work schedule. They are expected to agree on a final date today.

According to Tolentino, the DPWH had served notice that it would take eight months to finish the project. Actual work, however, will be done only from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily.

The MMDA chief said any equipment or vehicle used at the work areas should no longer be there by 5 a.m., or else they would be towed by his agency.

Earlier, Reynaldo Tagudando, DPWH regional director for Metro Manila, said the Magallanes Interchange last underwent major repairs in the 1980s and it that could pose dangers to motorists if not retrofitted as soon as possible. Niña P. Calleja