MCBMB inaugurates P9.5 million command center

CEBU, Philippines — The Metro Cebu Bridge Management Board (MCBMB) has inaugurated its new P9.5-million office and state-of-the-art traffic and security monitoring system located under the Marcelo Fernan Bridge in Barangay Pusok, Lapu-Lapu City.

The newly established MCBMB headquarters spans 18 square meters and is equipped with cutting-edge technology aimed at enhancing traffic management and security on the two bridges connecting mainland Cebu and Mactan Island.

The command center features 39 solar-powered wireless CCTV cameras with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, including human shape and facial recognition, vehicle detection, and license plate recognition. These features will aid authorities in effectively managing traffic and conducting investigations.

Additionally, 70 solar-powered streetlights have been installed along the Serging Osmeña Bridge at a cost of P1.6 million, while the Marcelo Fernan Bridge has been fitted with 34 solar-powered streetlights worth P1.9 million.

“The establishment of the new MCBMB command center allows for real-time monitoring of the two bridges, ensuring efficient traffic flow and immediate emergency response,” the Cebu Provincial Government said in a statement.

Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, who chairs the MCBMB, led the opening and inauguration of the facility. She was joined by Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan, Congresswoman Cindi Chan, Cebu City Mayor Raymond Garcia, and other government officials.

Also in attendance were MCBMB Vice Chair Ricky Dakay, Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) General Manager Julius Neri, National Economic and Development Authority-Central Visayas (NEDA-7) Director Jennifer Bretaña, Department of Tourism-Central Visayas (DOT-7) Director Judy Gabato, and Philippine Information Agency-Central Visayas (PIA-7) Director Fayeth Riñen. –/FPL (FREEMAN)