On October 14, 2026, the #MoveCebu forum convened at the University of San Carlos in Cebu City, where over 200 participants engaged in a dialogue about creating a more livable urban environment. Organized by MovePH and supported by local institutions, the event highlighted the importance of community involvement in shaping Cebu's future.
Community Voices on Urban Challenges
If we want a liveable Cebu, we need to stop thinking as only a city but start thinking we are a Metro Cebu.
Yumi Espina, Convenor, Movement for Liveable Cebu
- Focus on stability, healthcare, culture, education, and infrastructure.
- Address waste management and flooding issues affecting urban areas.
Yumi Espina, a key speaker at the forum, emphasized that the future of Cebu relies on collective action rather than isolated city planning. He pointed to recent environmental concerns, including waste management crises and severe flooding, as critical factors in the conversation about urban livability.
Participants shared their definitions of a liveable Cebu. For instance, local resident Asia Katrinah Atendido proposed that walkability should be prioritized, with sidewalks designed for pedestrians rather than vehicles. Others, like UP Cebu student Crispin Ginicez Caballero, called for improvements in public transportation to enhance mobility.
Inclusion of Marginalized Communities
Community leaders stressed that discussions about urban development must include marginalized populations. Lourdes Bueza, representing the urban poor, articulated the sentiment that a liveable city must uplift all citizens, stating, "A liveable Cebu is one where no one is left behind."
The forum addressed the historical challenges faced by urban poor communities, particularly in resettlement processes and land reclamation debates. Leaders highlighted the need for genuine partnerships between government, civil society, and citizens to create inclusive policies.
Call to Action for Civic Engagement
Rappler's managing editor Miriam Grace Go concluded the forum by calling for greater citizen engagement. She highlighted the importance of community-driven initiatives in urban planning, urging participants to continue advocating for livability beyond the event.
As Cebu grapples with rapid urbanization and environmental challenges, forums like #MoveCebu play a pivotal role in shaping a shared vision for the future. The dialogue initiated at this event is expected to resonate throughout the region as citizens and leaders work collaboratively towards a more sustainable urban environment.