The Cebu City Council has officially given its approval for the establishment of a pedestrian overpass along the Cebu South Coastal Road (CSCR). This significant infrastructure initiative aims to substantially enhance safety measures, improve accessibility for all residents, and streamline pedestrian movement in this bustling area of the city.
Infrastructure Committee Drives Project Forward
The Cebu City Committee on Infrastructure has played a pivotal role in advancing this project by submitting a comprehensive report and formal recommendations. In their documentation, the committee placed a strong emphasis on public safety as a core priority, ensuring that the overpass will meet the highest standards for community protection.
Collaborative Efforts and Government Support
This approval came after a formal suggestion was made by the South Road Properties Management Office (SRPMO), highlighting the collaborative nature of urban development in Cebu. The project is being spearheaded by the national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), with active management overseen by the SRP Governing Board, which is chaired by the Mayor of Cebu City.
According to a letter from DPWH 7 dated July 29, 2025, a mutual agreement has been reached between DPWH 7, the city government, and Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) to proceed with the overpass construction. As part of this agreement, RLC will sign a Right-of-Way Agreement in favor of DPWH 7 for a 143 square meter portion of their land. Simultaneously, the city government has committed to allowing the use of 237 square meters of municipal land for the overpass structure.
Project Management and Future Oversight
Under the directives established by the department, infrastructure projects within the Basic Infrastructure Program, such as this pedestrian overpass, will be turned over to the city government upon completion. This transfer of responsibility means that Cebu City will assume full management and maintenance duties for the overpass once construction concludes.
Formal Endorsement and Design Modifications
The SRPMO formally endorsed the project on January 9, 2026, following a thorough review process conducted by the SRP Governing Board. During a meeting held on December 18, 2025, the project received initial approval but with specific design modifications requested to ensure optimal functionality and safety.
Key requirements that must be addressed include the submission of complete and certified detailed engineering drawings. Additionally, the vertical clearance must be increased from 5.6 meters to a minimum of 6 meters to accommodate potential future road resurfacing projects. Legal protections must also be established to permit the removal, relocation, or modification of the overpass if necessary for public interest and safety concerns.
Enhanced Safety Features and Accessibility
The project specifications call for the installation of multiple safety and accessibility features. These will include warning signs, safety equipment, and elevators specifically designed to assist persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, and other individuals with mobility needs. These additions demonstrate a commitment to inclusive urban planning that serves all members of the community.
Alignment with City Development Plans
Committee Chair Edgardo Labella II has emphasized that this pedestrian overpass project aligns seamlessly with Cebu City's broader development plans, provided it adheres strictly to all technical and safety requirements. This alignment ensures that the infrastructure will contribute positively to the city's long-term growth and urban improvement strategies.
The approval of this pedestrian overpass represents a significant step forward in Cebu City's ongoing efforts to enhance public infrastructure, promote pedestrian safety, and create a more accessible urban environment for all residents and visitors.
