EDITORIAL - The third link should be a priority

Whether it is a bridge, underground tunnel or whatever, there's really an urgent need for a third access connecting mainland Cebu and Mactan Island. It's high time for this new link to be realized.

The current two bridges linking the two islands are already operating at full capacity. And in the absence of a third bridge or a tunnel, many foresee a serious problem to occur in the near future.

There's already an undertaking for a third bridge connecting Cebu City and Cordova town. In fact, a feasibility study is currently underway following approval by the Cebu Provincial Board.

It has been reported that the PB has already authorized Governor Hilario Davide III to enter into an agreement with Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation and Cordova municipal government under Mayor Adelino Sitoy for the study on the third bridge.

Owned by businessman Manny Pangilinan, Metro Pacific Tollways expressed interest in constructing the third bridge. It has also wanted to engage in rehabilitation of Metro Cebu roads as part of its drive for infrastructure development around the country.

Well, there really is a need to revitalize Metro Cebu's outmoded infrastructure system. Our road system, for instance, really needs a sweeping rehab to cope with the fast development that it is now experiencing.

As for the third access to Mactan Island, the government should move for its speedy fulfillment. It should make the project a top priority considering Cebu's fast-changing environment brought by massive development.

Any delay in the implementation of this important project would only mean a serious blow to the robust local economy, which remains largely reliant on swift movement of goods and people.

Today, going to Mactan Island really takes a lot of time for those coming from the southern part of Cebu. This is because of the heavy traffic in Mandaue City, especially during rush hours.   

Whether a bridge or a tunnel, a third link from Cebu City's South Road Properties to Cordova town would significantly reduce travel time, aside from helping ease the traffic situation in Mandaue City.