EMPLOYEES at Cebu IT Park have given positive feedback on the “Mayor of the Night” initiative after Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival announced on July 1, 2025, the rollout of free bus rides for night-shift workers to support the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector and other industries operating on non-traditional work hours.
Kim Lee Torrefiel and Jellime Sayon, both from Teleperformance, said the free bus rides will be a helpful and convenient solution for night-shift employees who often struggle to find transportation.
“It’s great because it’s really convenient for BPO agents, since working the night shift isn’t easy. We have difficulty getting a ride, especially when we’re standing and sleepy,” Sayon said in Cebuano.
Reducing travel costs
Ali Albarina, a night-shift worker at Wipro, said the initiative will not only reduce costs but also provide a safer and more reliable commute.
Nathaniel, a worker at Alorica, recounted his difficulty in getting a ride after his 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. shift.
“I used to rely on Move It or Maxim because by 2 a.m., there wasn’t much transportation available. So, it’s great because transportation is really needed at night,” he said in Cebuano.
With many Cebuanos working outside regular office hours, the “Mayor of the Night,” an initiative pushed by Mayor Archival and inspired by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña, seeks to adapt city governance to the demands of a 24/7 economy and ensure public service accessibility.
Abraham, who works at Avant, said that with the free rides, the money they would have used as fare could now be utilized for their other needs.
He also added that the bus system shortens the time spent waiting at terminals.
Jessica Rachel, an employee at Teleperformance, expressed hope that the service would be expanded beyond Cebu City.
“It’s a nice initiative, but I hope this platform will also cater to those living outside Cebu City, like Mandaue or Lapu-Lapu, since many of us live in different areas,” she said in a mix of Cebuano and English. / Ashley Judd F. Alon, UV Intern