CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Hundreds of students, workers, patients and daily commuters have voiced frustration and hardship over a new city policy prohibiting certain public utility vehicles registered or based outside Cagayan de Oro (CdO) from entering the city proper.

The restriction, which took effect on the directive of Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy, has disrupted the daily commute of residents from neighboring municipalities who depend on public transportation to reach schools, workplaces, hospitals and government offices in the regional center.

Many commuters said the policy has made travel more expensive and inconvenient, forcing them to take multiple rides, spend more on fares, arrive late for work or classes, and even postpone medical appointments.

“We live just outside the city but study and work here. This policy punishes ordinary people who rely on affordable transport,” said Crisadeth Tan, who operates a motor-parts store in the neighboring town of Tagoloan, in an interview with the Daily Tribune on Sunday.

Tan said the new arrangement has increased both travel time and transportation expenses for workers and small business owners who regularly travel to the city.

Patients seeking treatment at major hospitals in Cagayan de Oro have likewise expressed concern that the additional transfers could make it more difficult for the elderly, persons with disabilities, and those requiring regular medical care to access healthcare services.

The controversial measure stems from Mayor Uy’s directive limiting the entry of public transport vehicles from outside the city, encapsulated in his statement: “If you are not a Kagay-anon, you do not enter.”

Uy defended the policy, saying it is intended to address the city’s worsening traffic congestion and improve mobility for Cagayan de Oro residents.

“This is a necessary step to bring order to our roads and give relief to our own constituents,” the mayor said, stressing that his primary responsibility is to serve the city’s voters and residents.

Supporters of the measure argue that limiting the number of vehicles entering the city will help decongest major roads, reduce travel time within the urban center and improve traffic management.

Critics, however, contend that the policy places an unfair burden on thousands of commuters from neighboring towns who contribute to the city’s economy as workers, students, entrepreneurs and consumers. They have called on the city government to review the measure and explore alternatives that address traffic congestion without disrupting the daily lives of the commuting public.

The restriction continues to generate mixed reactions across Northern Mindanao, with local stakeholders urging city officials to engage neighboring local government units and the transport sector in crafting a long-term, region-wide solution to the area’s growing traffic problems.