With the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) nearing partial operations, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival is calling for a dry run before any presidential visit, stressing the need to test the system in real time before it is formally showcased.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) earlier announced it is targeting March 2026 for the initial rollout of the CBRT’s first operational segment. For Archival, however, meeting a timeline is not enough.
“Ang ako lang karon, akong hangyuon ang DOTr nga ato na lang ning isuway sa dili pa moanhi ang presidente para makabalo gyud ta unsay real results,” the mayor said.
He emphasized the importance of coordination between DOTr officials in Cebu and Manila, noting that operations cannot proceed without clearance from the agency’s central office.
“Ang importante ana nga nagkasabot ang DOTr dinhi ug ang DOTr sa Manila. Dili man ta kasugod kung dili maghatag ug signal ang Manila,” he added.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez confirmed in a February 20 interview that the agency aims to begin initial operations within the first quarter of 2026.
“As of now, 97% na tayo. Meron lang kaming inaayos na 3%. We are targeting this March,” Lopez said.
The remaining work includes punch-list corrections, cosmetic refinements, minor structural adjustments, and compliance documentation to ensure the project meets engineering specifications and regulatory requirements.
The CBRT is funded through a P28.78-billion loan from the World Bank, subjecting the project to stricter compliance and documentation standards typical of foreign-assisted infrastructure programs.
The DOTr has committed to conducting a dry run prior to opening the system to commuters.
The trial phase aims to test operations, identify bottlenecks, and minimize disruptions once passenger service begins.
Package 1 covers the initial corridor from the Cebu South Bus Terminal to Fuente Osmeña Circle. Once operational, the segment is projected to serve up to 34,000 passengers daily.
Originally scheduled for full operations by the second quarter of 2025, the project faced delays due to procurement adjustments and administrative changes.
The World Bank loan supporting the project will expire in September 2026.
The DOTr has said it is exploring alternative arrangements, including a possible public-private partnership (PPP), for succeeding phases, particularly for operations and maintenance.
Meanwhile, discussions continue over the proposed Capitol Station near the Cebu Provincial Capitol.
Transportation officials are coordinating with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines due to restrictions on permanent structures along the Capitol’s road median.
Authorities clarified that the Capitol Station is not required for the March 2026 target, as the first operational segment is designed to function independently. (LLP)
