The Cebu City Council, prodded by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña, passed a resolution on July 3, 2026, rejecting the Department of Transportation's (DOTr) plan to prioritize work on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) segment that would serve the South Road Properties (SRP). The resolution opposes the DOTr's shift in sequencing, which Osmeña claims deviates from the original commuter corridor.
Misunderstanding Over Route Changes
Many observers believe the dispute centers on the inclusion of SRP and the alleged dropping of the Bulacao and Talamban segments. However, the DOTr plan does not alter the route specified in the 2016 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), which already includes SRP. Vice Mayor Osmeña has frequently criticized Ayala and SM, accusing them of "hijacking" the BRT project, but no evidence has been provided to support these claims.
Osmeña's Signature and Stance
Social media posts have circulated the 2016 MOA, suggesting Osmeña changed his mind about the BRT route. On July 6, 2026, Osmeña explained that his signature on the MOA did not mean he supported a shift away from the original Bulacao-to-Talamban corridor. He noted that over the years, "implementation has prioritized the SRP at the expense of the city's main commuter routes." He emphasized that the mass transport system "must serve the populated residential districts rather than just commercial areas."
DOTr's Justification for Priority Change
DOTr project manager Norvin Imbong told the City Council that the schedule of work on the original route has been disrupted by "unresolved right-of-way issues" affecting 121 properties. Revising priorities would allow the use of remaining loan funds before the September 2026 deadline. The City Council, by passing the resolution, effectively rejected this justification.
Collateral Damage and Accusations
Osmeña's attacks on the priority change imputed ill intent to two malls at SRP: Ayala and SM, accusing them of hijacking the project. Some media reports suggested harsher accusations of corruption, but no evidence was presented, and the City Council did not request any.
Next Steps for the BRT Project
Mayor Nestor Archival Sr. must decide whether to sign the resolution, allow it to lapse, or veto it. The DOTr may choose to comply with or ignore the local legislature's sentiment. The unspent loan funds are at risk if the project stalls. The city's top leaders need to negotiate with the DOTr and other stakeholders to find a way forward. Councilor Pastor Alcover Jr., an opposition leader, claims he is having the "last laugh" as the MOA signed by Osmeña circulates, proving his criticism of Osmeña's campaign correct.
