An 18-hour traffic gridlock struck Angeles City on Thursday due to the holiday rush, ongoing construction of the Abacan Bypass Roadway, and multiple vehicular accidents.
Kiko Pangilinan, officer-in-charge of the Angeles City Traffic Development Office (ACTDO), reported severe congestion along McArthur Highway, spanning from Dau in Mabalacat City to the Angeles City-San Fernando boundary, from 7 AM until 1 AM the following day.
Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. deployed additional traffic enforcers and emergency responders to ease the situation, which worsened due to increased shoppers at SM Clark and SM Telabastagan. The lack of alternative routes, with the Abacan Bypass Road closed for construction until January 6, further compounded the gridlock.
Pangilinan noted that simultaneous Christmas parties and last-minute holiday preparations led to a spike in vehicle volume. He urged the public to exercise patience and cooperation during the busy season.
Twelve accidents across key city areas contributed to the congestion, prompting