Revving Engines and Thrilling Adventures: BOSS Iron Man Riders Take Over Cagayan de Oro

COURTESY: CIO

On a vibrant Sunday, February 1, Cagayan de Oro City became a whirlwind of excitement as it welcomed the BOSS Iron Man Motorcycle Challenge. More than 1,000 bikers from across the nation roared into the city, their engines echoing the thrill of camaraderie and adventure. As part of this grueling endurance event, Cagayan de Oro stands proudly as a designated stopover, showcasing the city's hospitality and love for motorcycling.

The event kicked off early on Saturday, January 31, at General Santos City, where riders set forth at the break of dawn. The city’s streets transformed into a bustling hub, as motorcycle enthusiasts navigated through the designated route towards Masterson Avenue. The BlueOil gasoline station served as a checkpoint, and from 7 am to 1 pm, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and camaraderie. Spectators lined the streets, cheering on the riders, who were not just participants but also ambassadors of the motorcycle community.

A Journey of Brotherhood and Endurance

As the bikers prepared for their next leg towards Valencia City, the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) ensured a smooth journey with a carefully crafted traffic route scheme. This meticulous planning highlights the city’s commitment to supporting such grand events while prioritizing safety. The spirit of adventure was palpable, as riders fueled their machines and their spirits, ready to conquer the miles ahead.

The BOSS Iron Man Motorcycle Challenge is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of passion, endurance, and brotherhood. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the riders were set to journey back to General Santos City, aiming to cross the finish line past 6 pm. In Cagayan de Oro, they not only found a stopover but also a community that shares their love for the open road. This event leaves a lasting mark, not just in the hearts of the riders, but also in the city that welcomed them with open arms.

Navigating the Chaos: Unpacking the New Traffic Scheme for All Saints' and All Souls' Day in Bulua

COURTESY: https://cagayandeoro.gov.ph/

As the calendar flips to November, the city gears up for All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. These revered days are marked by visits to cemeteries, shared memories, and, inevitably, traffic jams. This year, however, the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) has rolled out a new traffic scheme to ease the congestion around Bulua Public Cemetery and Eternal Garden (formerly Greenhills Memorial Park). Let's dive into what this means for drivers, commuters, and everyone else trying to navigate the city during this busy period.

First off, if you’re planning on driving anywhere near Bulua this November 1-2, 2024, prepare yourself for an adventure. Thanks to Executive Order No. 434-2024 A, signed by Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy, Macapagal Drive is embracing a one-way traffic flow, exclusively for all vehicle types. This one-way system stretches from the Bulua National Highway all the way to the entrance of Golden Haven and exits onto Canitoan Road or Iponan Road. Sounds simple enough, right? 

The aim here is to streamline the flow of traffic and minimize gridlocks, but it also means you’ll need to plan your route carefully. With no right turns allowed from secondary roads onto the one-way portion of Macapagal Drive, drivers will need to be savvy about their entry and exit points. It’s all about creating a steady, manageable flow—like a gentle river rather than a raging torrent.

Now, let’s talk restrictions. If you're a driver of public utility vehicles like PUJs, Motorela, Trisicad, or tricabs, there are a few more hoops to jump through. Specifically, these vehicles can't enter Macapagal Drive from the National Highway heading towards Bulua Public Cemetery and Eternal Garden. The exception, of course, is for PUJs with approved franchises servicing Scions Subdivision, Mindanao Homes, Soldiers Hill, and the Canitoan-Pagatpat area. It’s a bit like a VIP list, but for vehicles.

This restriction is designed to prevent bottlenecks caused by large, slow-moving vehicles, ensuring that those who really need to get through can do so with minimal delay. It might seem a little strict, but it’s all in the name of smoother traffic flow and, hopefully, a less stressful day for everyone involved.

Parking, oh beloved parking. It’s often the bane of any driver’s existence, especially during busy periods like this. Under the new scheme, one-side parking is in effect for light vehicles traveling from Macapagal Drive. You’ll be parking on the left side, facing south, from the National Highway to the entrance area of Eternal Garden and as designated by the RTA.

This strategic parking plan aims to keep one lane clear for moving traffic, helping to keep everything ticking along nicely. Think of it as a giant game of Tetris, where every car needs to slot perfectly into place to keep the game moving smoothly.

For those looking to dodge the main flow, alternative exits are your new best friend. Vehicles entering Eternal Garden can exit through a rear area leading to vacant land next to the former ABS-CBN station, then back onto Macapagal Drive. Additionally, all northbound trucks are rerouted via Barangay Iponan towards the national highway, freeing up space on Macapagal Drive.

These alternative routes are like secret passages in a sprawling castle, offering a quieter, less congested path for those in the know. They’re perfect for the adventurous driver who doesn’t mind a detour if it means avoiding the worst of the traffic.

Navigating the new traffic scheme in Bulua during All Saints' and All Souls' Day might feel a bit daunting at first. Still, with a little planning and patience, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. The RTA’s plan aims to make the experience as smooth as possible, and with everyone’s cooperation, we can all get to where we need to go with minimal fuss. So, plan your route, leave with plenty of time, and maybe even enjoy the ride—it’s all part of the adventure!