The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) is planning to establish a dedicated motorcycle lane along the Banilad-Talamban (Bantal) road, also known as Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue. The proposed lane will span five kilometers, according to CCTO officials.
Rising Motorcycle Registrations Drive Need
The initiative comes in response to a significant increase in registered motorcycles in the area, which has contributed to traffic congestion and safety concerns. CCTO chief Raquel Arce has been credited with successfully reducing traffic jams on Bantal road through previous measures, such as the no-left-turn policy during rush hours. However, the current situation remains challenging, especially when private schools are in session.
Observers note that while the no-left-turn rule has improved traffic flow, it has not been consistently applied to motorcyclists. Many riders are seen ignoring the restriction, creating hazardous conditions as other motorists do not expect vehicles to turn left during banned hours.
Expected Opposition from Riders
The CCTO anticipates backlash from motorcycle riders, who are likely to complain that the dedicated lane is too narrow and dangerous. Many riders argue that confining motorcycles to a single lane increases accident risks. However, the majority of motorists and pedestrians are expected to support the measure, as it would prevent riders from weaving through traffic and engaging in counterflow driving.
According to the CCTO, the lane will restrict motorcycles to a designated space, reducing reckless driving and counterflow violations. Previously, policies aimed at curbing reckless motorcycle behavior have been undermined by strong pushback from rider groups, effectively allowing riders to dictate traffic law enforcement.
Political Will Needed for Enforcement
The Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (Team) had previously enforced a counterflow ban, but it was eventually abandoned, likely due to negative reactions from motorcyclists. This pattern highlights a reversal where laws intended for the safety of all road users, including motorcyclists, are sidelined.
If the CCTO succeeds under Arce's leadership, similar measures should be implemented on other major roads in Cebu City with high vehicle volumes. The key, according to traffic experts, is political will to enforce ordinances and traffic laws strictly, as these are designed for safety and not to oppress any group. The perception of oppression among motorcyclists stems from years of lax enforcement that allowed them to violate traffic rules with impunity.
