Drivers Showing Dissatisfaction Towards CBRT Trial Operation
Cebu City's Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Test Run: A Mixed Reaction
Cebu City is gearing up for the accelerated completion of Phases 2 and 3 of its Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, as Mayor Michael Rama has promised to issue a resolution urging for its speedy completion. The BRT, intended to reduce congestion in the city and discourage private car use, has recently undergone a test run from September 17 to 19, 2025.
During the test run, ten Cibus units of Ceres Bus were deployed along the Phase 1 route, which spans from Il Corso at the South Road Properties (SRP) to Cebu IT Park in Barangay Apas. The test run also covered the Package 1 route, traversing from the Cebu South Bus Terminal along N. Bacalso Ave. to the front of the Capitol building along Osmenña Blvd.
The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) was commended for its handling of traffic management during the dry run by Councilor Winston Pepito, chairman of the Cebu City Council's committee on transportation. Pepito noted that the test run was successful in identifying operational issues that need to be addressed. However, many motorists have reported that the test run has worsened congestion in the city.
Pepito believes that the frustrations might be due to short-term inconveniences rather than the project's long-term goal. He plans to file a resolution urging the National Government to fast-track the completion of Phases 2 and 3 of the CBRT. Pepito also plans to conduct his own information and education campaign to explain the project's purpose and importance.
Some concerns were raised during the test run, such as the lack of advance announcements and the potential worsening of traffic during the holiday season. Motorcycle driver Jonasel Dayonot suggested implementing time schedules to allow private vehicles through the closed routes during the test run. Driver Vergillo Clarisa noted that the traffic lasted well into the evening, especially during rush hours.
Driver Pablito Jutahot criticized the lack of advance announcements, stating that commuters from other towns and cities in the province were particularly inconvenienced. Student Rachelle Mae Ramirez has to leave two hours earlier to arrive in time for her classes due to the adjustments caused by the CBRT trial run.
Despite the challenges, Pepito remains optimistic. He stated that once commuters start using the BRT, they will no longer face traffic issues while taking traditional jeepneys. Pepito believes that the sacrifices made during the test run will lead to a more efficient and less congested city in the long run.
The full CBRT project, first proposed in the 1990s, is now targeted for completion by next year, 2026. The BRT system is expected to revolutionize public transportation in Cebu City, providing a faster, more reliable, and less congested alternative to traditional jeepneys.
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