CCCI supports inter-modal transpo system in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) has backed the integrated inter-modal transport system for Cebu following the announcement of Transportation Secretary Tugade the Department of Transportation is set to implement as a “basket of solutions” to the mass transit needs and to address the traffic congestion in the metro area.

In an official statement yesterday, CCCI president Consul Antonio Chiu  said that this multi-faceted set of infrastructure investments  when complemented with non-infrastructure initiatives can hopefully ensure the smooth flow of people, vehicles, goods, services and investments in Cebu.

“We look forward to the system that incorporates the Bus Rapid Transit, Point-to-point bus system,” Chiu said. Light Rail Transit, monorail and even the Intelligent Transportation System. We look forward to the collaboration of all stakeholders in the quick implementation of these projects to shorten the suffering of the Cebuano community.”

CCCI further supports the proposal of the Central Visayas Regional Development Council for the creation of the Metro Cebu Traffic Management Council (MCTMC).

“We believe that having an oversight body  consisting of relevant government agencies with private/business sector representatives promises to be an institutional mechanism to address traffic management in the metropolitan area in general and alleviate the monstrous traffic congestion that has affected all sectors of society  and has even pushed foreign and local investors away from Cebu,” the business leader said.

He pointed out the challenge is how to “walk the talk” in translating into coherent policies and guidelines, strict observance of basic laws and regulations, speedy and smooth implementation of infrastructure projects such as roads and the intermodal mass transit systems and inculcating a culture through education and discipline of the drivers, public and many more.

“The Metro Cebu Traffic Management Council to be organized immediately  should have its functionality in place, clear accountability spelled out, exercise transparency in all its actions and decisions to be effective and efficient. The ultimate test will be in the safety in the thoroughfares and smooth flow of people, vehicles, goods and services throughout metropolitan Cebu,” the CCCI president said. (FREEMAN)