State of the city address: Archival admits P1.12B deficit

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival acknowledged Tuesday that the city is operating with a P1.12-billion budget deficit, but maintained that investments in infrastructure and social services will continue as he delivered his first State of the City Address (SOCA) before the members of the City Council.

Despite the deficit, Archival said Cebu City still had P10.28 billion in available funds as of June 30, 2026, which he said would allow the city to pursue priority programs under his administration.

"Everything we do is for the people," the mayor declared, stressing that investments in infrastructure and social services are essential for long term growth.

Much of Archival's address centered on his administration's 10-point agenda, highlighting initiatives on sustainability, smart governance and inclusive development.

Under the sustainability pillar, he cited the P20-per-kilo rice program in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, greenhouse hydroponics, irrigation systems and the city's 256,000-tree growing initiative, which he said has already achieved nearly half of its target.

He also highlighted climate resilience projects, including expanded water infrastructure, forest park adoption partnerships, and alternative water sourcing initiatives.

On governance, Archival pointed to the CitiFine electronic traffic citation system, recognized by the Department of Science and Technology as a model for digital traffic enforcement. He also cited the digitalization of business permit processing, the proposed night market ordinance, and efforts to position Cebu City as a sports and events hub.

The "Mayor of the Night" program, conceptualized by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña to extend government services beyond regular office hours, was likewise highlighted as part of the city's responsive governance initiatives.

Archival also presented health and social welfare accomplishments, including efforts to complete the Cebu City Medical Center, free dialysis services, support for barangay health workers, partnerships with the World Mosquito Program, the "Walang Gutom" program, assistance for street dwellers and the homeless, and housing projects in Kamagayan, with expansion planned in Budlaan, Pit-os and Lorega.

On waste management, the mayor cited initiatives aimed at reducing garbage generation, including eco-stations, composting facilities, and environmental campaigns such as "Tumbler Ko, Kaugmaon Ko" and the newly launched "Basura Mo, Kaugmaon Nato."

He also highlighted the "Waste to Road" program, which converts plastic waste into construction materials, along with coastal cleanups, dredging operations and drainage improvements to help mitigate flooding.

However, while the address outlined waste reduction initiatives, it did not present a long-term solution to Cebu City's garbage disposal problem. The city continues to operate without a sanitary landfill, with garbage accumulating in several areas, including the South Road Properties.

Traffic, another issue that has dominated public concern, also received limited attention.

The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) project, which Archival had earlier pledged to support and included in his 100-day report through the creation of a technical working group, was not mentioned during the address.

Instead, the mayor discussed plans for a “No Contact Apprehension Policy”, traffic route adjustments, motorcycle lanes and the opening of CCLEX's Ramp 2 as measures to ease congestion.

Before the SOCA, Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña, who presided over the City Council's annual organizational session, reaffirmed the city's commitment to Carbon Market vendors.

"We will not abandon you. We have not forgotten," Osmeña said, stressing that government exists to serve the people.

He cited the Carbon Market redevelopment, the revival of the original CBRT route, Monterrazas, budget savings and the 24/7 Mayor of the Night program as examples of public service.

Archival, however, did not discuss the Carbon redevelopment project. He instead mentioned plans for a proposed night market ordinance and acknowledged Councilor Jun Alcover, one of his most vocal critics, as a possible sponsor of the measure.

The mayor concluded his address with his familiar refrain, "Taking care, taking action for Cebu City." — Preciosa L. Bacalso (FREEMAN)