Guadalupe Ramp Project Sparks Community Outcry in Cebu Over Displacement and Environmental Concerns
Residents living in barangays along the Guadalupe River in Cebu are strongly opposing the proposed Guadalupe Ramp Project, an extension of the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX). They have raised serious warnings that this infrastructure initiative could lead to the forced eviction of numerous families, the destruction of decades-old communities, and an exacerbation of flooding issues in the region.
Survey Reveals Significant Impact on Local Properties and Structures
A recent parcellary survey has identified 99 affected lots and 103 structures, with the majority located in Barangay Pasil, followed by San Nicolas and Ermita. According to the residents, relocating them to sites far from the city center would severely harm their livelihoods. They are also questioning why a residential area was chosen for the project, especially since previous administrations had already expressed concerns about its impact on households.
Project Details and Current Status Under Scrutiny
The 1.5-kilometer ramp is designed to connect the existing CCLEX bridge to mainland Cebu via the intersection of C. Padilla and Tres de Abril roads, following the Guadalupe River towards Pahina San Nicolas. Currently, the project is in the pre-approval phase and cannot proceed without consent from the Local Government Unit (LGU) and a revision of the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).
Community members emphasize that the potential social and environmental costs outweigh the benefits, urging authorities to reconsider the plan to protect their homes and way of life.
