Traffic has started to build up on Rizal Street in Mangaldan, Pangasinan, causing the local government to move tricycles back to the elevated parking area in front of the public market ahead of schedule.

The slow movement of vehicles has been felt the most in the town’s main commercial area, especially near the public market. Authorities said the volume of vehicles and the presence of tricycles and private cars parked along both sides of the road have contributed to the traffic.

POSO chief Gerry Ydia said the tricycles were ordered to return to the designated elevated parking area to help improve the flow of traffic.

“Cured na ang semento at saka obligado na silang ibalik kasi sumisikip na sa kalsada natin kaya kailangan na sila bumalik,” Ydia said.

Nine Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODA) are now parked in front of the market. The return was originally scheduled for December 15, 2025, but the local government advanced the move due to worsening congestion.

Tricycle drivers welcomed the decision, saying it will help reduce blockage on the road.

“Salamat at naibalik na kami dito kasi kapag sa kalsada talagang traffic diyan,” Benny Solis, a tricycle driver, said.

Some debris remains in the elevated parking area, but drivers said clearing work has already been scheduled.

“Tatanggalin naman daw po, sabi kasi sagabal talaga ’yan diyan,” Rey Calicdan, another tricycle driver, said.

POSO has also deployed additional enforcers along Rizal Avenue to help manage vehicle movement during the holiday season.