Cebu Village Leaders Urge Mayor to Protect Public Access to Spartan Trails Amid Development
In Cebu City, village leaders from Barangay Tisa are making a passionate appeal to Mayor Nestor Archival to safeguard public access to beloved hiking routes, including the renowned Spartan Trails, as private development projects continue to expand into the scenic southern hills. This call to action highlights a growing tension between urban progress and community recreation in the area.
Development Versus Recreation: A Growing Concern
In a formal letter dated January 28, 2026, Tisa Barangay Captain Bernado Lapina Jr. expressed serious concerns that popular trails leading to Barangay Sapangdaku are being encroached upon by the Monterrazas de Cebu project. According to Lapina, certain sections of the path toward Sitio Baksan have already been closed to the public due to ongoing construction activities, restricting access for local residents.
Local vendors operating along these routes have also reported receiving notices that their spots might soon become part of the Rise at Monterrazas expansion. While Lapina acknowledged the importance of urban development for economic growth, he strongly emphasized that these trails are vital for hundreds of residents who rely on them weekly for exercise, mental well-being, and access to fresh air in the city's green spaces.
A Call for Cooperation and Balanced Solutions
To address this issue and find a sustainable middle ground, Tisa officials are proposing a collaborative meeting involving multiple stakeholders. The proposed participants include:
- City Government leaders and representatives
- Private developers, such as 8990 Development Corp and Arcenas Development Corp
- Local representatives from barangays including Tisa, Buhisan, Sapangdaku, Guadalupe, and Pamutan
The primary goal of this dialogue is to develop strategies that balance new construction with the public's need for accessible green spaces and outdoor recreational opportunities, ensuring that development does not come at the cost of community health and well-being.
The City's Response and Limited Authority
Mayor Nestor Archival responded by noting that because many of these trails are located on private land, the City's regulatory power is somewhat limited. However, he expressed a commitment to ensuring that the trails remain usable for as long as possible, stating, For the meantime, since the area is not yet being used, it is very important that it is maintained.
Archival plans to engage with the developers of Monterrazas de Cebu, urging them to collaborate with the city and barangays to keep the area clean, safe, and accessible for hikers. This cooperative approach aims to mitigate the impact of development on public access.
Focus on the Popular Starbuks Area
The Mayor specifically highlighted the popular Starbuks spot in Sitio Baksan, known for its breathtaking views. While this area attracts many visitors, Archival pointed out that issues with trash accumulation and maintenance have emerged. He believes that through coordinated efforts between the city and developers to maintain cleanliness and safety, the Starbuks area can continue to serve as a high-quality destination for the community, preserving its recreational value amidst ongoing development.
