Local authorities in Mangaldan, Pangasinan have approved new loading and unloading areas for modern jeepneys along Rizal Avenue, easing traffic concerns and addressing complaints from drivers who lacked designated stops on the busy road.

More than 100 modern jeepneys operating routes from San Fabian, San Jacinto, Manaoag and Laoac to Dagupan City pass through Rizal Avenue daily, according to the Manaoag-Dagupan Transport Cooperative (MADATCO).

Until now, the cooperative had no official loading and unloading area in the town, forcing drivers to pick up and drop off passengers wherever space was available.

Operators said the situation exposed drivers to traffic violations and penalties.

“Mahirap kasi kung saan-saan kami hihinto para magsakay ng pasahero,” Ramon Imbuido, a modern jeepney operator, said.

MADATCO said it raised the issue with the local government, citing congestion and parked vehicles that made it difficult to stop safely.

“Kung pansinin natin, kabi-kabilaan may naka-park na sasakyan kaya mahirap huminto diyan,” Condrado Fernandez, chairman of MADATCO, said.

The local government approved the request and designated four loading and unloading areas for modern jeepneys serving the affected routes, the Public Order and Safety Office (POSO) said.

“Naghanap tayo ng paparadahan nila para hindi rin sila mahirapan,” Mangaldan POSO chief Gerry Ydia said.

The new loading and unloading zones will take effect on Tuesday, February 10, authorities said. The local government also plans to set up similar areas for traditional jeepneys that pass through Rizal Avenue, as part of efforts to improve traffic flow and commuter safety.