Execs told: Urban woes no hindrance to growth

Despite challenges posed by population growth, pollution and sewage problems, Metro Cebu can still achieve sustainable economic growth and urban development in the long term.

Urban planners and officials of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) gave this assurance during the last day of the Mega Cebu workshops attended by Metro Cebu officials.

The project spearheaded by the Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board (MCDCB) with assistance from Jica is aimed at drafting the framework for a long term, sustainable urban development plan for Metro Cebu.

During the presentation Shuhei Okuno, an official of Yokohama City, said they encountered similar problems faced by Metro Cebu after their first international port opened in 1859.

Okuno said these challenges were overcome since they adopted innovative urban development schemes and policy measures that were supported by their constituents.

“Yokohama aims to be an international city; even if it’s difficult, like lots of our money were spent, but we wanted to be an international city. Metro Cebu has (a lot of potential for growth) and you need to identify priorities,” he said.

Among these priorities, he said, is developing basic infrastructure like roads and instituting an “effective mass transport system.” “Basic infrastructure is really important especially in preserving natural resources and heritage,” Okuno said.

Jica team leader Shigehisa Matsamura said any urban development plan should consider the elements of livability, mobility, competitiveness and environmental preservation.

“Even if the process is complex we’ll achieve the target,” JICA Deputy Director Masanari Yanagiuchi said.

Roberto Aboitiz, co-chairman of the MCDCB, said expert advice is crucial in completing a workable development plan.

“This is an integrated (complicated) problem so there should be an integrated solution,” Aboitiz said.