Tourists will be barred from the Kaybiang Tunnel starting March 19

The Kaybiang Tunnel became open to the public way back in 2013. It connects the provinces of Cavite and Batangas on the western side of southern Luzon. Currently, this is the longest underground highway tunnel in the country. Kaybiang Tunnel also became famous among motorcycle riders and cyclists around 2020.

From a daily average of 200 visitors, it went up to 2,500 people every weekend. Why is that? Motorcycle riders and cyclists often take the Ternate to Nasugbu highway leading to the tunnel. The route offers picturesque scenery and winding roads and it is pretty close to Metro Manila.

Kaybiang Tunnel bans tourists for health measure and public order

Hence, tourists often flock near this tunnel to take pictures or rest from a long drive and they became the source of traffic congestion. Recently, a video of a fight between riders in the area went viral online. This instance, on the other hand, shows that it can be a source of a bigger problem in terms of peace and order.

Remulla to designate checkpoints in various areas in Cavite

Meanwhile, this reason made Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla decide to ban tourists. He added that he has been receiving several complaints about it. To solve this matter, he issued an executive order that’s going to take effect tomorrow, March 19. Authorities no longer allow these activities near the tunnel: parking vehicles, taking selfies, eating, and loitering.

For the bike riders, they must not use the tunnel for leisure purposes or blow horns as they pass along it. Remulla explained that these measure does not mean he wants to spoil people’s enjoyment. However, he has to guarantee that the traffic flow remains smooth. Also, the local government must preserve the peace and order on the province’s roads.