Mandaue backs request to allow 21B PUJs to enter Cebu City streets

CEBU, Philippines - The Mandaue City Council yesterday approved a resolution supporting the request of the 21B Mandaue Night Drivers and Operators Association to the Cebu City government to allow them to enter Colon Street at night.

The resolution, sponsored by Councilor Diosdado Suico, also begged for an indulgence from their counterparts in the Cebu City Council. The resolution states that the council is supporting the organization’s move to be allowed to enter Cebu City between 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.

“Whereas if by God’s will, hearts will be mellowed and conscience touched by the incessant yearnings for understanding and consideration as they too has the mouth to be fed and stomach to be filed, then that would be the highest peak and magnanimous success not only for the drivers of the 21B PUJs route but also for the commuting public who will be enjoying the comfort and convenience in going directly to their point of destination without taking a double ride in going to the urban center in downtown Cebu,” Suico’s resolution states.

Leonides Tapilot and Guillermo Gelig Jr., president and vice president of MNDAOA, respectively, have requested Mayor Michael Rama to allow their members to ply their usual route from Cebu Business Park to Colon Street. The association sent a formal letter request to Rama last August 7.

The Cebu City barred Mandaue PUJs in the city’s major thoroughfares in its effort to decongest traffic. Mandaue PUJs are only allowed up to the accredited terminals. The ordinance which was implemented three years ago has greatly affected the drivers plying the 21B (Mandaue -Cebu city route).

The drivers said that since the implementation of the ordinance their daily income has greatly reduced compared to the time when they were still allowed to pass through General Maxilom Avenue to Fuente Osmena down to Plaza Independencia.— (FREEMAN)