In a significant development for the Metro Cebu Expressway (MCE), the Cebu Provincial Government and Acciona Infrastructure are set to come together at a convergence meeting next month, where they will align their efforts and strategies to ensure the successful implementation and completion of the project.
The meeting is a strategic gathering that will bring together representatives from various sectors and key stakeholders to align their goals, evaluate the project viability, and agree on essential processes for moving forward. This will include the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Taisei Corporation – Acciona’s Japanese partner in Asia.
They will also discuss and forge a cohesive approach on the project’s financial sustainability, environmental impact, and overall benefits to the local community, including financial modeling, toll fees, traffic studies, and the legal and regulatory frameworks required for the project’s swift and efficient implementation and completion.
Ruben Camba, Acciona’s Director for Infrastructure in Southeast Asia, met with Governor Gwen Garcia on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, to discuss the convergence meeting. Also in the meeting were Engr. Pericles Dakay and Capitol Consultant Atty. Ben Cabrido.
The MCE project, spanning 73.7 kilometers, has faced delays and challenges under the DPWH, primarily due to environmental concerns and safety issues. As a result, the Cebu Provincial Government stepped in to take the lead in the implementation of the project under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme with Acciona Infrastructure, a Spanish conglomerate with a proven track record having successfully developed the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX).
Following the convergence meeting, a five-month Financial Viability Study will begin, during which, teams will assess construction costs, traffic impact, and pricing for right-of-way acquisition. Bi-weekly progress meetings will be held to ensure that the project remains on track.
The MCE is an essential infrastructure development for Cebu, designed to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance connectivity, and support the province’s further economic growth. | JMT