By Xander Ledesma
Bacolod City has officially launched a dry run of its new green route under Mayor Albee Benitez’s administration. The dry run aims to provide a glimpse into the city’s future public transport system, focusing on environmentally friendly and efficient travel options.
The initiative, known as the “BCGC-Ayala Green Route,” will operate daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering free rides to passengers as part of the “Libre Sakay” program. This initiative encourages residents to explore the new route while promoting alternative transportation solutions to address the city’s growing concerns about traffic congestion and environmental impact.
The green route is designed to enhance the city’s public transportation network by connecting key commercial and residential areas while exploring sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives for urban mobility. The route will begin at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), pass through the Circumferential Road, and continue through the CL Montelibano area. It will then proceed along BS Aquino and Narra Avenue, traveling to 6th Street and North Capitol Road before reaching its final destination at Ayala Malls Capitol Central.
The route has been carefully planned to serve busy hubs within the city, including the Bacolod Government Center and Ayala Malls, both crucial locations in Bacolod’s evolving urban landscape. The dry run will test the logistics of the route and gauge public reception, allowing the city to refine its services before fully implementing the green route as a permanent part of the transportation system.
Like many urban areas in the Philippines, Bacolod City faces challenges such as traffic congestion and air pollution, along with a need for a more efficient public transportation system. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the transportation sector significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the urgent need for greener alternatives in urban areas.
The BCGC-Ayala Green Route is part of Mayor Albee Benitez’s broader vision for a cleaner, more sustainable Bacolod. By providing an eco-friendly public transportation option, the city aims to alleviate traffic problems and promote a more sustainable lifestyle, aligning with global trends toward reducing carbon footprints and adopting cleaner energy sources in urban transport systems.
In addition to reducing traffic, the green route will offer a more accessible way for Bacolod residents to travel between key city areas, decreasing the reliance on private vehicles and helping to lower carbon emissions. This initiative follows a growing trend in the Philippines, where cities like Manila and Davao are also working to modernize and green their transportation systems.
During the dry run, passengers can enjoy free rides along the BCGC-Ayala Green Route. The “Libre Sakay” service aims to encourage residents to experience the route and provide feedback to the city government. This free ride service runs daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, allowing passengers to familiarize themselves with the new route and the comfort it offers.
The city has strategically planned the route to accommodate passengers traveling to and from key destinations, including government offices, shopping malls, and other commercial areas. This is expected to make the green route a popular choice for both residents and visitors to Bacolod, especially those seeking a more eco-friendly travel option.
Throughout the dry run period, officials from the Bacolod City Government will collect data and feedback from passengers to evaluate the route’s effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. The gathered information will aid in refining the service to ensure it meets the community’s needs.