Social media plea triggers emergency bus rollout in Cebu City

Cebu City has launched a temporary free bus service to ease holiday traffic chaos. The move came after a viral social media post highlighted long delays for evening commuters. Officials now face questions about whether this short-term fix addresses deeper transport issues.

The decision followed a December 18 post by resident Fidel Laurence Ricafranca, who shared frustrations over gridlocked streets. Within hours, the city redeployed four electric buses—two for the Talamban route and two for Bulacao—to run free rides from 8 p.m. to midnight. Priority was given to senior citizens, disabled passengers, and pregnant women, with each bus carrying 60 to 80 people per trip.

The buses will continue operating until New Year’s Eve, offering four-hour shifts to clear downtown crowds. Commuters like Abby Jimenez described the usual evening rush as a 'holiday of traffic,' praising the city’s quick response. Yet Councilor Winston Pepito admitted officials remain unsure whether the problem stems from too few vehicles or general congestion.

Behind the scenes, the Cebu City Transportation Office is preparing a technical report to assess whether a permanent solution is needed. The free service has also sparked concerns among jeepney drivers, who rely on holiday fares for their peak earnings. City leaders now face a balancing act: maintaining public goodwill while protecting the livelihoods of private operators.

The initiative will run through the New Year, with a full review of the city’s transport strategy planned for 2026. Authorities must decide whether to expand free services or focus on long-term reforms. For now, the buses provide relief—but the debate over sustainable solutions continues.