The peace and charm of Barangay Balubad, a multi-awarded village recognized for its cleanliness and greenery, are under threat as hundreds of heavily loaded sand and gravel trucks continue to ply its narrow roads, causing traffic congestion and alleged damage to public infrastructure.

Residents have raised concerns over the increasing volume of trucks passing through the village, saying the heavy vehicles have disrupted daily life and damaged covered canals and roadside drainage systems.

Balubad Barangay Captain Romel Garcia said the village’s main road was never designed to accommodate trucks carrying heavy loads.

“Makitid po ang daan. Kapag nagkasalubong na ang mga malalaki at mabigat na mga trucks ay nagbabara na ang mga sasakyan,” Garcia said.

He estimated that 100 to 200 trucks regularly use the route from the Porac provincial road, cutting through Barangays Balubad, Pulong Santol and Sepung Bulaon on their way to and from the towns of Guagua and Sta. Rita.

To ease congestion and protect residents, Garcia has requested the Porac municipal government to impose a truck ban during peak hours, specifically from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Garcia has also sought assistance from the Pampanga provincial government for the repair of damaged canals and the construction of larger drainage systems.

He said provincial engineers have already conducted surveys and measurements to assess the needed improvements.

For Balubad, a village that has earned recognition for its clean, green and peaceful environment, the growing truck traffic poses a serious challenge to preserving its award-winning reputation.

Residents are hoping for swift government action before further damage is inflicted on their roads, drainage systems and once-tranquil community.