Archival backs pedestrian overpass in SRP

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival is supporting the construction of a pedestrian overpass in the South Road Properties (SRP), saying it complements the area’s current nature as a commercial hub.

While the Cebu City Council opted to first seek opinions from various offices, including the City Legal Office (CLO), regarding right-of-way acquisition, Archival stressed several factors that highlight the project’s viability.

In an interview yesterday, Archival said the project was initiated by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which he believes is already a safer option for pedestrians.

“The other thing is naay other area sa syudad nga ilang matungtungan, pero tan-awon nato unsay isulti sa council,” Archival said.

He added that the overpass will act as a bridge connecting both sides of the SRP, ensuring safety for the walking public.

Archival noted that SRP was originally designed as an industrial area, which is why an expressway was constructed. However, he pointed out that SRP is now functioning primarily as a commercial zone.

From his perspective, several business locators in the area have been contributing to the city in terms of real estate taxes and employment, while people are expected to frequently go in and out of the establishments.

Without an overpass, Archival said, pedestrians would have to take longer routes — wasting time and energy while also contributing to traffic congestion.

In a letter dated July 29, 2025, and addressed to Archival, DPWH Regional Director Danilo Villa Jr. provided updates on the project titled: “Convergence and Special Support Program, Special Road Fund - Motor Vehicle User's Charge (MVUC) as per R.A. 11239, Construction of Pedestrian Overpass along Cebu South Coastal Road including improvements within South Road Properties, Cebu City, Cebu.”

The overpass will be constructed along SRP with a total bridge length of 48.56 linear meters.

Villa also recalled that in their earlier letter dated July 8, 2025, the DPWH presented the project’s conceptual plan, showing the identified portions where the columns would be erected.

During its most recent session, before allowing the mayor to approve the agreement, the City Council referred the matter to the Committee on Infrastructure, the SRP Management Office, the Cebu City Planning and Development Office (CCPDO), and the CLO, particularly for their comments on the drafting of the Right-of-Way Agreement. — (FREEMAN)