Gov. Gwen Garcia underscored the critical role of local government units (LGUs) in planning and implementing national project within their jurisdictions in a meeting with World Bank officials and the Department of Tourism on Thursday, May 23.
She voiced her sentiments to the officials amid ongoing issues with the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, which is primarily funded by the World Bank.
The World Bank delegation, led by Senior Transport Specialist John Richardson and Senior Urban Transport Specialist David Ingham, visited Cebu to address concerns raised by the Provincial Government regarding the BRT project.
Gov. Garcia has been vocal about the lack of consultation with the LGU, particularly the Provincial Government, of the BRT project.
She had ordered a halt to the construction of BRT bus station along Osmeña Boulevard in front of the Capitol building to preserve the Capitol’s heritage and cultural integrity.
Gov. Garcia emphasized the importance of integrating local government insights and needs into the planning phases of national projects to ensure they align with local priorities and heritage considerations. She said such is “paramount” in any project implemented at the local level.
This move has prompted the DOTr to redesign the planned terminals for this segment of the project, taking into account the preservation concerns highlighted by the governor.
During the meeting, Gov. Garcia reiterated her stance on the efficacy of public-private partnerships (PPP) in accelerating the implementation of major infrastructure projects.
She said PPPs not only expedite project timelines but also reduce the need for the national government to incur development loans. Citing successful PPP ventures, including the privatization of Mactan Cebu Airport and various projects within the province, the governor showcased how private sector involvement has led to more efficient and effective project execution in Cebu.
Joining the World Bank delegation were Senior Environmental Specialist Agnes Balota, Senior Procurement Specialist Dominic Aumentado, Social Development Specialist Mavi Ladia, and Infrastructure Specialist Hope Gerochi. The DOTr was represented by Project Management Office Road Sector Head Engineer Rolando Lara and Program Manager Benedicto Guia Jr.
Meanwhile Gov. Garcia also introduced the World Bank officials to several Cebu mayors during her consultative meeting on Thursday, May 23. | Carlo Lorenciana