Catbalogan City Gears Up for Holy Week with Road Clearing, Traffic Measures

Posted on Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:08 am

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar — Authorities in Catbalogan City are intensifying preparations for Holy Week by implementing a citywide road clearing and traffic management campaign to ensure public safety, smoother travel, and faster emergency response.

The initiative, led by the Catbalogan City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC), began with a collaborative planning meeting on March 6, 2026, involving various government agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office.

The main focus of the preparations is an extensive road-clearing operation targeting major routes leading to churches, transport terminals, and other key destinations that typically experience congestion during Holy Week due to the influx of devotees and travelers.

The DPWH Samar 2nd District Engineering Office has committed to immediate road maintenance and minor repairs, including the removal of illegal structures, trimming of roadside vegetation, and patching up potholes to ensure safe and accessible roads.

In an interview with Pedro Lindsey R. Loyola VI, Engr II and PIO designate on March 12, the operations began in Barangays Payao and Maulong, critical entry and exit points, and have expanded to Barangay Mercedes with plans to continue in Barangay Socorro as part of a comprehensive citywide effort to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance emergency response capabilities.

Loyola emphasized that the campaign is not solely focused on traffic management but also aims to facilitate the swift movement of

emergency and medical teams to prevent accidents and delays during the busy travel period.

The campaign involves the collaboration of various enforcement and support units, including the City Law Enforcement and Auxiliary Office, Philippine National Police, Highway Patrol Group, and the Land Transportation Office. Waste management support is provided by MetroWaste Solid Waste Management Corporation, while barangay offices and the Joint Inspection Team assist in local coordination.

Authorities are urging residents and business owners to cooperate by removing illegal obstructions such as parked vehicles, temporary stalls, and construction materials encroaching on public roads.

With Holy Week approaching, officials are optimistic that these coordinated efforts will lead to safer roads, improved traffic flow, and a more organized environment for both residents and visitors, highlighting the city’s commitment to public safety and effective emergency response.

(Photos courtesy: DPWH 2nd DEO Samar)