CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES — Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival said the city government will first observe the rollout of their late-afternoon free rides before considering additional schedules in the morning.
He explained that while the city is eager to expand commuter benefits, it must ensure resources are managed responsibly.
“We will study that because wa pa ta kahibaw unsay gamit sa fuel nga atong gasto. Kay kon mosugod ‘ta unya muhunong, masuko. Ato lang sa ni’ng e-klaro ang gabii para, if some budget, butangan nato ini’g ka buntag,” Archival said, stressing the need for careful planning before committing to more free ride hours.
The mayor also disclosed that he has directed the Department of General Services to explore the purchase of additional e-buses and e-cars, citing the ongoing fuel surge and the city’s broader push toward sustainable transport. At present, Cebu City operates two e-buses.
Aside from the city’s own free bus rides, the Department of Transportation continues to offer free rides under the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) system.
In an advisory issued March 19, 2026, CBRT released official fare matrices and route maps, along with the schedule for its “Love Bus Libreng Sakay” program.
Free rides will be available during peak hours, from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., helping commuters adjust to the new system while easing transport costs.
Beyond commuter programs, Archival reminded city employees to conserve fuel in their daily operations.
“Gamiton ang ato’ng vehicles efficiently,” he urged, noting that stricter energy-saving measures are necessary as global oil prices continue to rise due to the Middle East crisis.
The mayor emphasized that Cebu City’s shift toward electric mobility is part of a broader sustainability effort, but one that must be pursued with fiscal discipline.
By balancing immediate energy-saving directives with cautious investments in electric transport, Archival said the city can ensure commuters benefit from affordable and reliable mobility without risking stalled projects.
| Written by Caecent No-ot Magsumbol/RAE
