A tragic accident at the South Road Properties in Cebu City on Valentine's Day has resulted in the deaths of two senior citizens, intensifying calls for immediate improvements to pedestrian safety. This incident has reignited critical discussions about whether the city's rapid development is adequately protecting those on foot.
Immediate Safety Measures Implemented
In response to the fatal crash, Cebu City officials have launched a pilot program featuring a CCTV-based command center that provides live public streaming of traffic conditions. Additionally, criminology interns have been assigned to assist the Cebu City Transportation Office in managing high-traffic areas.
"This initiative was a test to evaluate effectiveness and identify areas for enhancement," stated Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival. The mayor emphasized that the livestream includes ambient audio to fully engage viewers with real-time road activities.
Legislative Review and Accountability
The City Council is currently examining the proposed Kingston Ralph Ordinance, named for a local entrepreneur killed in a hit-and-run. This legislation would impose liability on businesses that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated drivers, marking a significant shift toward broader accountability in public safety.
Identifying the Danger Zone
The South Road Properties, originally designed as a high-speed vehicular route, now intersects with pedestrian-heavy zones, creating hazardous conditions where fast-moving traffic meets foot traffic. While safety projects like footbridges and walkways are underway, their completion is projected to take six months to a year.
"The infrastructure is already in place but unfinished, requiring approximately six months to one year for completion," Mayor Archival explained. He has also urged Filinvest Land Inc. to open and maintain walkways in their managed areas, though the company has not yet responded.
Current Reliance and Future Solutions
Presently, Cebu City depends heavily on personnel such as CCTO officers and interns for traffic management. However, safety experts advocate for improved urban design, including physical barriers and overpasses to separate pedestrians from vehicles.
Looking Ahead: A Critical Year for Safety
The next twelve months will be pivotal for Cebu City, with the completion of new footbridges serving as a key test of the city's ability to prevent further fatalities. If enacted, the Kingston Ralph Ordinance could set a national precedent for road safety and alcohol regulation. Meanwhile, the city continues to monitor its CCTV system, aiming for enhanced transparency and safer streets through real-time data.
