Truck drivers in Davao City may soon have a new traffic rule to follow, as a city councilor has suggested implementing a center-lane policy to streamline traffic flow.

In an effort to improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion in Chinatown, Davao City's Second City Councilor, Ralph Abella, has proposed a pilot project for trucks to use the middle lane on major roads. The project, which is set to undergo a 90-day trial, is being coordinated with the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO).

The proposed one-way traffic scheme along Monteverde Street would not make the center lane exclusive to trucks. Other vehicles could still pass through, but trucks would not be allowed to turn left or right from the center lane. The lane markings would use broken lines, allowing trucks to enter or exit when necessary.

For the initial rollout, truck drivers would only receive warnings, not tickets. Councilor Abella believes now is the right time to revisit this proposal, as it has previously been presented to the Chinese Chamber but never implemented.

The truck ban in Davao City during peak hours is enforced under the Comprehensive Transport and Traffic Code. Similar truck lane policies are already in place in Metro Manila, with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) enforcing truck-only lanes on roads like C-5 and Katipunan Avenue.

A committee hearing is set for September 5 to discuss the one-way traffic scheme proposal. The project, if approved, may also be tested on Diversion Road and other areas with three lanes. The goal is to create a more efficient traffic flow and alleviate the congestion in these busy areas.

Stay tuned for updates on this pilot project and how it may impact traffic in Davao City.

Truck drivers in Davao City may soon have a new traffic rule to follow, as a city councilor has suggested implementing a center-lane policy to streamline traffic flow.