Partial operations begin: Generally smooth

MANILA, Philippines —  The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) system had finally hit the road yesterday, marking the start of its partial operations with some free rides offered to commuters along the Il Corso–IT Park route.

The first day of operations was described as generally smooth, with buses running on dedicated lanes and traffic flow remaining manageable across other lanes.

City Councilor Winston Pepito, chairman of the City Council’s transportation committee, in an interview with The Freeman expressed satisfaction on the initial rollout, noting that traffic congestion was minimal except at intersections with stoplights.

 “Smooth ra gyud kayo … wala ra’y problema gyud,” Pepito said, emphasizing that the system’s exclusive use of dedicated lanes helped maintain order on the roads.

Currently, 17 of the 30 buses are operating, and Pepito highlighted that the CBRT’s structured intervals prevent issues such as buses “hiding” during free ride periods—a problem once associated with the Love Bus.

He assured commuters that the CBRT system is designed with strict schedules and commitments to ensure reliability.

Despite the positive start, Pepito stressed the need for a stronger information drive to help the public understand how the system works.

Some commuters reportedly expressed frustration that buses only stop at designated stations, unlike jeepneys that allow passengers to disembark anywhere along the route. Pepito explained that this is a fundamental feature of mass transport systems, which prioritize efficiency and safety through fixed stops.

On the matter of free rides, Pepito urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to extend the program beyond peak hours. At present, free rides are limited from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“Ako na’ng i-request sa DOTr nga unta tibuok adlaw gyud … mao gyud ‘ni ako’ng direction,” he said, adding that he would follow up with the agency to push for day-long free rides.

Questions have also been raised about the current route, which runs from SRP to IT Park.  Some critics argue that the route does not fully serve residential areas and workplaces, pointing out low ridership between Cebu South Bus Terminal and Capitol.

 Pepito explained that the SRP alignment was chosen due to ongoing construction complications in Bulacao, such as a tunnel and flyover that would hinder implementation. He clarified that Bulacao remains part of the long-term plan and will be included in later phases.

For now, Pepito believes the SRP route is beneficial, especially as the area continues to attract more locators and developments.

He emphasized that mass transport is essential to support growth in SRP and reduce reliance on private vehicles. As Cebu takes this significant step toward modernizing its public transport system, Pepito reiterated his call for continued cooperation from commuters and authorities.

Pepito hopes the Department of Transportation will extend the free-ride program beyond peak hours. He believes this would encourage more Cebuanos to use the CBRT, ease their transition to modern transport, and provide relief amid economic pressures from the ongoing Middle East crisis. (CEBU NEWS)