Motorists traveling to and from Lapu-Lapu City on May 5 should prepare for significant traffic congestion. Intermittent road closures are being enforced as part of the ASEAN simulation exercise leading up to the 48th ASEAN Summit.
Local authorities have issued a traffic advisory outlining affected routes and suggested detours.
Simulation Schedule and Affected Routes
The simulation exercises are scheduled for three key times: 8 a.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m. During these intervals, major roads leading to the high-security Mactan Newtown will be temporarily closed.
Key affected routes include Maribago to Mactan Newtown and Punta Engaño Road to Mactan Newtown, making these coastal corridors impassable during the designated times.
Recommended Detours
Motorists are advised to avoid the coastal routes and use alternative interior roads within Lapu-Lapu City. Suggested detours include:
Increased Security Measures
The simulation is part of heightened security protocols for the upcoming ASEAN Summit. Stricter access controls are expected around Mactan Newtown and nearby accommodations.
The closures will only occur when delegations pass through designated routes. Traffic is anticipated, but not every road will be closed all day.
Nagiel Bañacia, Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office
Traffic Impact and Access
The primary ceremonial route runs from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to summit venues and accommodations, including Mactan Newtown. Despite the road closures, the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and Mactan-Mandaue Bridge will remain accessible.
Advisory for Motorists
Officials recommend that motorists plan their trips carefully, expect delays, and avoid the ceremonial route during peak convoy movements. Although closures will be brief, frequent convoy activity may still cause significant traffic slowdowns.
The ASEAN Summit is set for May 7 and 8, with high-level meetings already underway in Mactan.