CMU unveils 49M pedestrian overpass

Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon | March 26, 2025—Central Mindanao University (CMU) marked a significant milestone with the official turnover and blessing of the PHP 49-million pedestrian overpass—an essential infrastructure project designed to safeguard students and the university community from road-related accidents along the Sayre Highway.

Addressing a longstanding safety concern, the need for the pedestrian overpass arose from the alarming number of accidents involving students crossing the Sayre Highway. According to official records, there were 42 accidents in 2021, 35 in 2022, 36 in 2023, and 47 in 2024. Recognizing this risk, CMU sought the support of local government units (LGUs) and the provincial government to develop a pedestrian bridge that prioritizes student safety and reinforces a culture of safety within the university.

Funded through the initiative of Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri and implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the overpass stands as a crucial step toward ensuring a safer campus environment.

In an interview, Vice President for Administration, Prof. Hermie P. Pava, emphasized that the overpass is a long-term initiative requiring cooperation from all stakeholders, including students, barangay officials, and the local government. “We hope and pray that recorded accidents will significantly decrease or be eliminated,” he stated. CMU has initiated discussions with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), barangay (BLGU), municipal (MLGU), and provincial government units (PLGU) to ensure the effective use and sustainability of the overpass, including legislative measures to maintain its safety and integrity.

Moreover, University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe expressed his gratitude for the prioritization of the project, acknowledging its significant impact on the university community. “The high number of student-involved vehicular accidents has been a pressing concern. This overpass is a much-needed intervention,” he said.

Furthermore, Senator Miguel Zubiri, who graced the event with his wife, Audrey Tan Zubiri, emphasized the importance of addressing the dangers of crossing the Sayre Highway. “This overpass was built to solve this critical safety issue, ensuring the well-being of students, teachers, and employees,” he stated. Recognizing CMU’s reputation as a home of topnotchers and capacity builders, he envisioned the overpass as an iconic structure and potential attraction, calling it a “selfie bridge” due to its unique architectural design.

Senator Zubiri also highlighted other projects he has funded for CMU, including the 70 Million Farmer’s Technology Hub among others. He further announced funding for an upcoming project—the construction of a covered court at the university grandstand. CMU graduates consistently rank among the top in board examinations, surpassing national ratings, which is why the Senator is always eager to support projects that enhance the University.

Meanwhile, Audrey Tan-Zubiri stressed the immeasurable value of student safety, stating, “You cannot put a price on the value of safety and the student’s life. Good education is meaningless if students cannot travel safely from their homes to the university.”

Echoing this sentiment, the President of the Supreme Student Council, Ken Bien Mar Caballes, shared how the project directly impacts students. “The new bridge in front of CMU is a huge relief for all of us students, and especially our families. It’s not just about convenience – it’s about safety, especially with how busy the highway gets. Now we can cross without worrying about traffic, which has always been a big concern for many of us. I would like to express our sincere appreciation for this initiative, which enhances both our safety and our sense of security in CMU.”

The PHP 49-million budget for Phase 1 covered the overpass’s structural components, including a dedicated ramp for PWDs. The initial design considered access for motorelas, motorcycles, and bicycles, but CMU recommended restricting usage to PWDs, bicycles, and e-bikes for enhanced safety. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]