DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 4 September) — The City Council approved a resolution on Tuesday to construct an overpass in Panacan following the death of a 59-year-old woman hit by a trailer truck. The resolution, approved during the council’s regular session, aims to ensure pedestrian safety and prevent further road accidents. The overpass is proposed to be built in front of the Panacan public market, where Gilda Saludes Inting was struck while crossing the street on Monday. The resolution urges the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), in coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), to prioritize the project. Councilor Doce L. Apostol, who introduced the resolution, emphasized that the overpass would save lives and improve traffic flow by providing a designated safe crossing facility. Apostol, formerly the barangay captain of Panacan, highlighted the urgency of the project. Eller Bantugan, a barangay kagawad, noted that the request for an overpass was submitted nearly 10 years ago but delayed due to budget constraints. The initial allocation only covered two lanes, while the road was widened to four lanes, requiring additional funding. Currently, the pedestrian lane is the sole crossing point, causing traffic congestion on the national highway frequented by large trucks and public vehicles. Bantugan believes the overpass will alleviate traffic issues. (Razl EJ Teman / MindaNews)
