Rama will still look into other transport proposals

CEBU, Philippines - Even with the approval of the implementation of the Bus Rapid Transit system in Cebu City, Mayor Michael Rama is still open to other suggested modes of mass transportation.

“O, pwede ra man combined. I even would want a subway, if I have the money. AGT (Automated Guideway Transit), why not? Lainlain man ta’g agianan ba,” Rama told reporters in a press conference yesterday.

Different sectors, both local and national, have approached the Cebu City government and presented various modes of mass transportation they deem applicable to this bustling city.

Among others, AGT, Light Rail Transit (LRT), Metro Rail Transit (MRT), a five-coach Light Centrally Road Train, an electronic hybrid train, and cable cars have all been suggested.

“Cable car for tourism, but cable car as a mode of transportation, we parti-cularly have the universal fear of heights, even MRT and LRT,” commented Rama.

The mayor emphasized that he is open to any suggestion for transportation so as long as these respond to the mobility needs of the people and will connect distant areas.

“I would not be too violent against LRT for as long as this will not be passing major routes and its somewhere on the site in the mountain or whatever that can connect the south and north,” he further said.

For now, Rama said they want to prioritize BRT, which the City has long been espousing and has recently got the approval of the National Economic Development Authority.

“First things first; it has been approved. Alleluia. That’s something that I am very happy about, and they should be happy about. And now is a challenge for us – we planned for it, fought for it; we now have to make it done,” Rama stressed.  (FREEMAN)