In connection with alleged rumors of BRT Project, I am an anti-Bus Premium Transit in Metropolitan Cebu.
The World Bank already approved a $64.6-million loan for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Manila up to Quezon Avenue. Manila is different from Cebu. Manila has train railways already and we don't have. According to Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, it is advantageous for Metro Manila because there are no involvements from private sector in converting LRT-2.
The Bus Premium Transit is very idealistic, professional way in solving problems like traffic, time management, and safety. It is a public transport system, fast and segregated from traffic typically grade separated and structured in underground tunnels known as subways or above streets known as elevated transit line. In most high-tech versions, it consumes one lane and uses electric multiple units and magnetic levitation.
Here in Cebu, I don't think it is advisable for three reasons;
1.) Budgetary Plan. It is costly; it would take more than $64.6 million because of infrastructure and establishments involvements. Plus how many generations have to pay for this loan?
2.) Geophysical. We don't have enough space. We owe so much on 300-hectare reclamation project. South Road Reclamation Project amounted 12.315 billion yen (roughly P4.65 billion in 1995) and we are still in debt until today...and to address the traffic issue, for me, BRT is not the solution.
3.) Human Rights. The last, but not the least, this sector got me more concerned, the Public Utility Jeepney drivers; after giving people a more convenient way of transportation – propose BRT especially during rush hours, these sectors are already part of our daily routines and struggles. Nonetheless, for decency, would the government give them another source of income? It is a question of, thus the government has another budget for trainings, training providers, and compensation pay? We can't just throw them away.
In overall; BRT doesn't have any positive correlation between economic status and space and cannot be applied to polycentric cities. Moreover Cebu is different from Manila and every city is different and the factors influencing the growth of a city are diverse.
Bethany Quisido
Cebu City
Email: bethany_quisido93@yahoo.com.