Mayor explains use of ‘street sweepers’

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival maintained that he is not a traffic violator but a promoter of discipline, stressing that his use of motorcycle escorts, which he calls “street sweepers,” aims to keep order along the Banilad–Talamban corridor, not to bypass congestion for personal gain.

Archival explained that the escorts were deployed to guide motorists into their designated lanes and maintain flow along the city’s busiest stretch.

“We call that as a street sweeper. Nag-sweep padulong sa dalan, aron ang tanan nga mga tawo, ang mga motor, mo-naa gyud sa ilang dalan,” he said.

He emphasized that the practice was not for his convenience, adding, “I’m not doing this para sa akong convenience. No, I’m not... I’m just doing this nga ang atong Talamban mahimong mahapsay.”

Responding to criticisms from residents, Archival said, “Daghan kaayong nag-sulti, ‘Bati ka nga mayor, ang atong Banilad worst! Wala kay respeto!’ No, I’m not doing that! I’m doing that in a way nga mahapsay ta.”

The issue surfaced during a City Council executive session reviewing the Oplan BanTal Discipline Zone.

Some councilors questioned whether the mayor’s escorts were consistent with traffic rules.

Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña raised the issue during his remarks before the council.

“They talk about disciplining the public… how can they discipline the public when the biggest violator is Mayor Nestor himself?” he said. “He uses his motorcycle to break through the traffic… the mayor himself should set the example, he’s the biggest violator.”

City Transportation Office Assistant Head Kent Jongoy defended Archival’s conduct.

“Mayor Archival is the number one promoter of the discipline zone. He follows traffic lights and pedestrian crossings and even uses a public address system in his vehicle to remind riders to stay within motorcycle lanes,” Jongoy said.

He clarified that the escorts are under the Office of the Mayor, not the city’s transportation office, and maintained that Archival’s actions were aligned with the program’s objectives.

Oplan BanTal was launched on August 1, 2026, covering Gov. Cuenco Avenue from Apas to Talamban.

It enforces motorcycle lanes, designated public utility vehicle lay-bys, and pedestrian crossings.

Violations include loading outside lay-bys, crossing solid lines, and jaywalking, with fines ranging from P50 to P1,000.

The program was introduced to address chronic congestion in Cebu’s busiest corridor, though some stakeholders complained of inadequate consultation. — (FREEMAN)