The Cebu City Police Office has taken decisive action against illegal transport activities plaguing the city's pier area following numerous passenger complaints about systematic overcharging.
Mayor's Directive Spurs Immediate Action
Mayor Nestor Archival personally directed the police crackdown during a Peace and Order Council meeting, informing newly appointed Colonel George Ylanan about the persistent complaints against both taxi and habal-habal drivers operating near the port. The mayor's office had received multiple reports detailing how drivers were exploiting passengers disembarking from vessels by charging excessive fares.
According to the complaints, taxi drivers consistently refused to use their meters while habal-habal motorcycle drivers imposed fixed, inflated rates on unsuspecting passengers. This pattern of overcharging had become particularly problematic at the Arellano corner V. Sotto Street area in Barangay Tinago.
Coordinated Law Enforcement Operation
In response to the mayor's order, the Cebu City Police Office mobilized multiple agencies for a targeted clearing operation. The coordinated effort included the Traffic Enforcement Unit under Major Keneth Paul Albotra, the Cebu City Transportation Office, and personnel from the Waterfront Police Station.
The enforcement operation took place on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM specifically targeting the problematic transport zone. Police focused on strict implementation of all traffic regulations and city ordinances with the dual purpose of ensuring public safety and eliminating habitual illegal transport practices.
Significant Enforcement Results Achieved
The two-hour operation yielded substantial results with law enforcement issuing 11 temporary operators permits and 71 traffic citation tickets to violators. Authorities also impounded one motorcycle during the crackdown as part of their enforcement measures.
Colonel Ylanan confirmed that these operations will continue as a regular practice, especially with the approaching holiday season when Cebu City anticipates an influx of visitors from neighboring provinces and regions. The police chief emphasized that strict enforcement of city ordinances against errant drivers will be maintained to protect both residents and tourists from transport exploitation.
The proactive measures demonstrate the city government's commitment to addressing transport-related complaints and ensuring fair practices within Cebu City's public transportation system, particularly in high-traffic areas like the pier zone.
