The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) project is at a standstill due to a disagreement between the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Cebu City Council over which segment to build first. The DOTr plans to prioritize the South Road Properties (SRP) segment, but the City Council, led by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña, opposes this through an approved resolution, insisting on the original Bulacao-to-Talamban route.
Council's Priority: Original Route for Commuters
Vice Mayor Osmeña argues that government projects should first serve densely populated areas like Mambaling, Basak San Nicolas, and Pasil before commercial zones like SRP. The original route from Bulacao to Talamban is the core of daily travel for Cebuanos, and prioritizing commercial areas would betray poor drivers and passengers who endure severe traffic congestion daily.
DOTr's Practical Concerns: Funding and Right-of-Way
However, CBRT project manager Norvin Imbong explains that the funding from the World Bank expires in September 2026. The original route is stalled due to right-of-way (ROW) issues: 121 properties need acquisition, 82 require lengthy court expropriation processes, and only eight lots have been paid. Imbong fears the remaining funds will be wasted if construction on the original route cannot start soon.
In contrast, the SRP segment has no ROW problems, as roads are already open, clear, and ready for construction. If the DOTr follows the Council and focuses only on the Bulacao-Talamban route, the 82 pending land cases will not be resolved by September, potentially taking years.
Both Sides Valid, But Time is Running Out
While the Council's stance is morally correct, the DOTr's practical approach is also justified. Osmeña suggests a vote to gauge public support, confident that he and the Council will win. The deadlock highlights the challenge of balancing community needs with project feasibility under tight deadlines.
