SOME movers of the “Mega Cebu” master plan were known opponents of Cebu City’s flyover projects.
But this didn’t deter former congressman Raul del Mar from pushing his proposed network of flyovers into the master plan.
“We are in the same wavelength, we have the same objective to update the master plan. The network of flyovers we have in mind, we will propose it to be part of the plan,” the elder Del Mar told Cebu Daily News.
He said his daughter, Rep. Rachel “Cutie” del Mar of Cebu City’s north district, wrote Transportation and Communications Secretary Mar Roxas to ask for a P30-million funding for a master plan in Metro Cebu.
The former congressman said his daughter’s office is willing to support the move of the private sector to regionalize 13 local government units (LGUs) in Metro Cebu.
He said they were also backing a unified solution on transport, drainage, environment, economic and other concerns.
If approved, Del Mar said the P30 million could be used to fund the master plan initiated by Metro Cebu Development Coordinating Board (MCDCB) whose members include businessman Roberto Aboitiz and Bunny Pages.
However, Del Mar said they had not yet discussed with the MCDCB the incorporation of the series of flyovers in the master plan.
“This is not the time to do it, but they already heard about the plan,” he said.
Del Mar said he will submit the plan for the flyovers and it would be up to the proponents if they will consider it.
The series of flyovers include the two flyovers that were planned for construction in MJ Cuenco Avenue and Gorordo Avenue.
The two projects were suspended by Public Works and Highways secretary Ronaldo Singson following opposition from religious groups and civil society.
Del Mar said two more flyovers in Mabolo and along the junctures of F. Cabahug and Cardinal Rosales Street were also included in the proposed network of flyovers.
Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma earlier expressed support to the Mega Cebu master plan, saying it can draw community involvement, which is always a “good sign” for development.
Palma was with Aboitiz and Pages last Monday for a presentation outlining the need for a Mega Cebu master plan.
The prelate also encouraged private stakeholders to collaborate and make the plan a reality.
The master plan for “Mega Cebu,” which covers 13 cities and municipalities of Metro Cebu, will have a 25- to 30-year time frame. Reporter Candeze R. Mongaya