TACLOBAN CITY — The Tacloban City Engineering Office(CEO) admitted lapses in coordination with traffic authorities following public backlash over the installation of metal railings that blocked a pedestrian crossing in downtown Tacloban.
The issue drew widespread criticism after photos of the railings obstructing the pedestrian lane circulated on social media, prompting concerns from residents and online users about pedestrian safety, accessibility, and project planning.
City engineering officials acknowledged that coordination with the Traffic Operation, Management, Enforcement, and Control Office (Tomeco) was insufficient during the implementation of the project.
Tomeco is the city office responsible for traffic management, road safety, and urban mobility programs, including pedestrian safety measures in major streets and commercial areas.
The controversy sparked discussions in local online communities and Reddit forums, where citizens questioned the design and purpose of the railing installations and called for improved planning in future infrastructure projects.
The incident comes as the city government continues efforts to improve sidewalks, pedestrian access, and traffic flow in key areas of Tacloban.
Previous clearing operations jointly conducted by the CEO, Tomeco, and other agencies focused on removing sidewalk obstructions and illegal structures in busy public spaces.
Residents have urged local officials to strengthen inter-agency coordination and prioritize public consultation and pedestrian welfare in urban development initiatives across the city.
(LANCE GABRIEL ENTEROSO, LNU Student Intern)
