CBRT efficiency dependent on public’s discipline

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival convened transport group leaders in a coordination meeting last Tuesday in City Hall to discuss updates on the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, calling for stronger cooperation as the city begins to see easing traffic conditions along key corridors.

City officials and transport groups are seeing early improvements in traffic flow following the implementation of the BRT, but challenges in commuter and driver behavior continue to affect operations.

Archival emphasized that the system’s efficiency depends heavily on public discipline, particularly adherence to designated bus stops.

One key issue raised during the meeting was the persistent practice of drivers stopping anywhere along the road to pick up passengers, even outside designated loading areas. This, the mayor said, disrupts the flow of traffic and undermines the purpose of the BRT system.

Transport groups agreed that both drivers and commuters must adjust to the new system. Passengers were encouraged to use proper stations, even if it means walking longer distances, while drivers were reminded to strictly follow designated bus stops.

“Yes, naay lagyo nga laktan but I think this is something we need to understand nga disiplina lang ta nga maglakaw kaysa ma sakripisyo ang daghan kay’g tao because of the traffic,” he said.

To address operational concerns, the city is considering deploying additional personnel near BRT stations. These personnel would guide drivers on proper stopping points and assist commuters in navigating the system, helping reduce confusion and improve flow along BRT routes.

Archival also cited practices observed during a recent trip to Japan, where public transport systems emphasize strict compliance with designated stops and pedestrian movement. He said similar discipline is necessary for Cebu to fully benefit from the BRT system.

Concerns about safety and accessibility were also raised, particularly regarding poorly-lit areas near the station. Additional lighting has since been installed and officials reported that these areas are now better illuminated.

Sidewalk clearing and improvements have also been undertaken to support walkability, in line with the BRT’s design, which encourages pedestrians to access centralized stations rather than roadside pickups.

Despite initial resistance, city officials maintain that adapting to the system is necessary for long-term benefits.

Meanwhile, Archival also clarified that the proposed assistance from the Cebu City Government will be intended for drivers residing in the city, with transport groups asked to resubmit an updated list of qualified beneficiaries.

The meeting covered the status of the fuel subsidy, which remains under evaluation pending the final number of drivers, as well as challenges faced by operators due to rising fuel costs and loan amortizations.

“Ang fuel subsidy mao ni karon nga atong giklaro kung pila g’yud kabuok kay the moment makahibaw ta pila kabuok, atong ‘ning mahibaw-an kung pila atong mahatag nila kay naa may certain budget nga atong gitan-aw kay kani wa man g’yud ta kahibaw nga naay mahitabo nga ingon ani so that’s why supplemental budget na siya,” Archival said.

Ellen Maghanoy, President of Cebu Transport Cooperative, said the initiative ensures proper coordination between operators and the local government, particularly in the distribution of subsidies. She noted that while national assistance programs are already in place, additional support from the Cebu City Government would provide much-needed relief to drivers and operators amid ongoing financial challenges. — Elizabeth Salarde, UP Cebu intern and Jose Luis Flores CTU Tuburan intern/BRP (FREEMAN)