Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes has welcomed criticisms on the simulation of a roundabout (rotunda) scheme at the intersection of  United Nations Avenue that caused a traffic jam. 

He said he has accepted all questions and virtual bashings, as well as the responsibility for the inconvenience that the massive buildup of vehicles had created to the public, but stands by the implementation of the traffic scheme.

“Di ko manghunaw ana. We have to accept. I have to take the cudgels, same as sa governor nga way kukahadlok. Kana siya [roundabout] padak-an, atong pangitaan og solusyon,” Cortes said. 

The simulation of the roundabout system took place on Sunday, April 14, 2024, that led to heavy traffic in the area. 

The simulation was initiated by the Provincial Government of Cebu.

The use of traffic lights resumed on Monday, April 15, 2024. 

The news team checked the intersection on Thursday, April 18, 2024 and found that stoplights are being used.

In addition, it was observed that road expansion has started. 

Gantry or sign holders in the area have also been put up to guide motorists. 

The mayor said that the roundabout scheme is not intended to be of an inconvenience to the public. Rather, it offers a solution to pad further economic losses. 

“We are doing everything. Wa to nato buhata para maglisud-lisod. Ato tong gibuhat together with our pinalanggang gobernador nga mangita ta’g solusyon kay kana man gung traffic it will translate to economic losses,” Cortes pointed out. 

In a report of “Sugbo News,” Capitol’s news arm,  Governor Gwendolyn Garcia has pursued continued dialogues with stakeholders in the implementation of the roundabout system. 

A blueprint was already presented on the required circumference or size of the “rotunda” for the said intersection. The plan is patterned after Fuente Osmeña rotunda in midtown Cebu City. 

Talks with lot owners affected by the road expansion at the intersection of UN Avenue were also pursued, the report added.