In a historic turn of events during the recently concluded midterm elections, former city councilor and environmental advocate Nestor Archival Sr. clinched a resounding victory as the new mayor of Cebu City, besting both suspended Mayor Michael Rama and incumbent Mayor Raymond Garcia. The proclamation marks a significant political shift for the Queen City of the South, setting the stage for a leadership that promises a “Sustainable Cebu City”.
A New Vision for Cebu City
Mayor Archival’s campaign, rooted in environmental stewardship, inclusive governance, and modern innovation, is now poised for realization. His administration is set to introduce bold and forward looking platforms that aim to address Cebu’s most pressing urban challenges while future-proofing the city for generations to come.
Archival’s Key Platforms and Policies
Under the banner of A Sustainable Cebu City, Mayor Archival’s government plans to launch a comprehensive agenda focused on innovation, social welfare, environmental reform, and infrastructure development.
Innovation and Economic Development
At the heart of Archival’s economic vision is the establishment of an AI and Robotics Development Hub Project. This initiative will position Cebu as a leader in artificial intelligence, robotics, and smart city technologies, fostering local innovation and attracting global tech investments.
In line with this, job creation remains a top priority. The revitalization of the Department of Manpower Development and Placement (DMDP) — originally established under BOPK — will be strengthened to provide more employment opportunities for Cebuanos.
Additionally, Archival will introduce a “Mayor of the Night” program, ensuring 24/7 government services for emergencies and urgent public concerns, a first for Cebu City.
Social Services and Welfare
Archival vows to deliver free education from elementary to college and free healthcare and hospitalization for all city residents — echoing longstanding calls for universal access to essential services.
The new administration will provide genuine support for marginalized sectors including urban poor communities, returning OFWs, farmers, fisherfolk, senior citizens, PWDs, single parents, market vendors, and public transport drivers. Notably, programs like the CHAMP hospitalization assistance and increased senior citizen benefits, originally championed by the BOPK and the Cebu City DSWS through City Ordinance 1453 (1993), will be reinstated and expanded.
Environment and Infrastructure
Mayor Archival’s administration intends to aggressively address the city’s perennial issues of traffic congestion, flooding, and waste management. His environmental agenda also includes securing clean water access and ensuring food security for Cebuano families.
Efforts to strengthen bike lane implementation, legislated under City Ordinance 2408 (2014), will be revived to promote sustainable transport solutions and healthier communities.
Key Policy Positions
Archival has made his stance clear on several controversial issues:
- He is against moving City Hall to the South Road Properties (SRP), believing public funds should prioritize hospitals, clean water, and public transport systems over grandiose infrastructures in areas with limited accessibility.
- He supports restoring the Citizen’s Hour in Cebu City Council sessions, encouraging transparency and direct public participation in governance.
Major Projects and Governance Reforms
One of the flagship projects under Archival’s term is the push to complete the Metro Cebu Expressway, in partnership with Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro. The expressway is expected to significantly decongest city traffic and improve connectivity within the province.
Another bold move is Archival’s plan to renegotiate the controversial contract with Megawide for the Carbon Market redevelopment. Labeling the current deal as “onesided and unjust” for over 4,000 displaced vendors, Archival has pledged to restore fairness and protect small businesses who rely on the historic market for their livelihoods.
In a spirit of inclusive governance, Archival also announced his decision to offer committee chairmanships in the Cebu City Council to minority bloc members. This move is aimed at fostering a balanced and pluralistic council where diverse perspectives are given equal weight in policymaking.
A Cebu City for All
As Cebu City ushers in a new chapter under Mayor Nestor Archival Sr., Cebuanos can look forward to an administration committed to inclusive progress, environmental responsibility, and people-centered leadership. From modernizing the local economy to restoring citizen participation and addressing longstanding urban issues, the roadmap ahead signals a Cebu City designed not just for the few, but for every Cebuano.
