Commuters in Cebu City got their first taste of the new Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) system on Friday as the government offered free rides during peak hours along the initial route from Il Corso to Cebu IT Park.
The free-ride program, available from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., is aimed at encouraging residents to try the CBRT system as it begins operations, according to Cebu City Councilor Winston Pepito, chairman of the city council’s transportation committee.
Pepito said the system allows passengers to travel along the designated corridor from Il Corso to IT Park, marking the start of the CBRT rollout implemented by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in coordination with the Cebu City Government.
He noted that his personal ride at 10 a.m., outside the morning peak hours, was smooth and free from major traffic delays.
Early reports during peak commuting hours also indicated that buses were operating without significant congestion, signaling a generally successful launch.
One key feature of the CBRT system is the use of dedicated bus lanes, which separate transit vehicles from regular traffic to improve travel time reliability.
The free-ride initiative has also increased passenger interest, with more commuters taking advantage of the dedicated lanes.
However, some passengers are still adjusting to the system’s rules, particularly the requirement to board and alight only at designated stations.
Observers noted that a number of commuters requested stops outside official stations, reflecting habits formed under the traditional jeepney system where passengers could flag down vehicles almost anywhere along the road.
City officials stressed that the station-based approach is central to the efficiency of the CBRT network.
Commuters who have expressed frustration at being unable to disembark outside designated stops are expected to gradually adapt as public information campaigns continue.
Pepito emphasized that the full benefits of the CBRT system would be experienced once the entire corridor is completed, including dedicated lanes extending from Bulacao or the SRP all the way to IT Park.
When the project is fully operational, commuters can expect travel experiences comparable to rapid transit systems such as LRT or MRT, with reduced traffic delays and more predictable travel times.
The city councilor also called on the national government to continue supporting the construction of the remaining sections, underscoring that the completion of the full CBRT network is essential to delivering the intended improvements in public transportation and easing traffic congestion across Cebu City. (LLP)
Photo by Jacq Hernandez
