I have been living in Cebu City for more than three decades. It had been my second home before major companies like SM Prime Holdings, Inc., Ayala Corp., Robinsons Group of Companies and IT Business Park established their businesses here.
In the past, the most popular shopping destinations for Cebuanos, as well as local and foreign tourists, were found on Colon St. and at the Carbon Public Market.
Cebu City is a land of promise and opportunity, attracting many people from Central Visayas and Mindanao who come to work, study and venture into business. The standard of living and quality of life were good, with adequate public service and infrastructure and issues regarding safety, peace and order were minimal.
For decades, I have witnessed the growth and progress of Cebu City. While it has many strengths, the city has also faced several challenges over the years, contributing to the perception of it being less livable. Some common concerns include:
Traffic congestion: Rapid urbanization has led to significant traffic problems, making commuting time-consuming and frustrating. Highways leading south from V. Rama, Pardo, Bulacao, Talisay and Minglanilla are heavily congested. In the north, routes from Lahug, Talamban, Mandaue and Consolacion to Liloan present a traffic nightmare for commuters.
Public service and infrastructure: Some areas in the city suffer from inadequate infrastructure, including public transport systems, drainage, water supply and waste management.
While modern public utility vehicles are a big help to commuters, they do not provide enough convenience due to overcrowding. The drainage issue has plagued the metropolis for decades; local barangays lack the resources and commitment to maintain their drainage systems. Water supply is often scarce, with some areas receiving water only at night.
Garbage collection is another serious problem in many barangays, as trucks do not collect waste regularly, resulting in unsightly and unhealthy dumping sites along roads. National roads are maintained regularly, but barangay roads often suffer from unaddressed potholes. Sidewalks are commonly used by vendors and parked tri-cycles, trisikads, e-bikes and habal-habal drivers.
Safety concerns: Some neighborhoods have experienced rising crime rates, affecting residents’ feelings of safety and security. In the past, during Duterte’s administration, crime statistics were low, unlike today, when crime rates have soared. The drug problem has resurfaced as a lucrative business, sowing fear and anxiety in neighborhoods.
While Cebu City offers economic opportunities, there are still disparities in wealth and access to services, creating challenges for lower-income residents. High population density leads to crowded living conditions and strains on public services. These factors can negatively affect the overall quality of life, making it essential for urban planners and local governments to address these issues to improve livability in the city.
As election season approaches, I hope more efforts will be made to tackle these challenges and enhance the livability of Cebu City, focusing on sustainable development, infrastructure improvements, and better public services. Let’s work together to bring Cebu back to its glory days!