Security exclusive for SRP mulled

CEBU, Philippines - A group composed of police and military personnel is being eyed to help secure the South Road Properties in anticipation of an economic boom in the area.

Roberto Varquez, SRP manager, said security is necessary because petty crimes such as robbery and theft have become prevalent there and companies that are building their structures have complained of losing construction materials.

The problem needs to be addressed this early, he said, considering that once companies have established their buildings, the SRP will become a prime destination.

Police Regional Office 7 Director Chief Supt. Danilo Constantino admits that the six policemen guarding the SRP is not enough but emphasized that they have not received reports of major crimes committed in the area just yet. 

He said he will call the attention of the Cebu City Police Director to address the problem. He hopes that as early as now, the SRP management will consider setting aside a small lot where a police station can be built in the future. He said a police station in the area will become imperative once the ‘community’ is established.

Considering that the city plans to build a wharf at the SRP, Major General John Bonafos of the AFP Central Command acknowledged the need for an augmentation force but clarified the AFP will only send personnel once there is a formal request.

High expectations are set on the SRP, what with big names such as SM and Filinvest, among others, pouring millions of investments there.

Just last month, SM Supermalls presented to the City Council its proposal for a High Quality Public Transport System at the SRP.

During an executive session, Visayas Region Operations Manager Sherry Tuvilla showed the Councilors the proposed “hybrid and BRT-ready buses” as interim transport service.

She said the need for a temporary “high quality” transport system is urgent while the proposed Bus Rapid Transit  is yet to be finalized, considering that the SM Seaside City Complex, the third SM mall in Cebu, is set to open next year.

The HQPTS will reportedly involve buses that can accommodate 70 passengers, with 30-percent less carbon dioxide emission, and 90-percent less particulate emission than a Euro 1 bus, an urban-class bus using a standard European Diesel Fuel with 330ppm (parts per million) of sulfur content.

Tuvilla described the hybrid and BRT-ready buses they would use as safe, comfortable and environment friendly. — (FREEMAN)