The Cebu Provincial Government has temporarily reduced terminal fees at the North and South Bus Terminals to ease the financial burden on transport operators amid rising fuel costs and to improve commuter experience.
The three-month fee reduction lowers bus terminal charges from P250 to P200, V-hires from P200 to P150, and taxis from P20 to P10.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro said the move is intended to help drivers manage expenses while ensuring passengers continue to receive reliable transport services.
“With the rising price of fuel, of course makatabang nis ilaha,” she said.
Baricuatro noted that while she had long wanted to fully remove terminal fees for taxis, legal limitations prevented a complete exemption.
“For the longest time, I really wanted to remove the terminal fees for taxis but this is an ordinance,” she explained.
Assistant Provincial Administrator Aldwin Empaces said the adjustment falls within existing authority under the Revenue Code and did not require a new ordinance from the provincial board.
He added that consultations with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and relevant bodies resulted in a swift decision.
“In 15 minutes’ time, we all agreed nga this is a big help in terms of cost not just for the drivers but transport workers,” Empaces said, noting that the policy could be extended after evaluation.
Terminal administrator Ahmed Cuizon said operations continue at full capacity, accommodating hundreds of vehicles daily, including buses, V-hires, and taxis.
He acknowledged that lower fees could reduce monthly revenue by up to P1.5 million but emphasized that the terminals are service-oriented, not profit-driven.
“We do not consider it as loss. Our terminal is primarily intended for service, it is not for profit,” he said.
Empaces added that improved compliance among drivers could help offset potential losses.
“Kung daghan ang dili mag tagu-tago… Basin mu-compensate ra sad ang lower cost because of higher volume,” he said.
The province plans to review terminal financial performance after one month to assess whether adjustments or extensions are necessary.
Alongside the fee reduction, Cebu is preparing for an expected surge of travelers during Holy Week.
Baricuatro has instructed terminal management to prioritize passenger comfort, recalling past overcrowding and long queues. “E-make sure nga comfortable sila unya dili mag-antus,” she said.
Additional measures include free bus rides for vulnerable passengers, installation of new air-conditioning and ventilation units, deployment of extra electric fans, mobile assistance teams, free drinking water, and enhanced waste management protocols to maintain cleanliness and order.
Baricuatro recently inspected the terminals and expressed satisfaction with the improvements underway. (SBA)
