Cebu has taken a significant step toward constructing a major coastal road connecting the island's northern and southern regions. The proposal has been formally submitted to the Regional Development Council (RDC) for a feasibility study scheduled in 2027. Officials believe this highway will stimulate the local economy, enhance travel safety, and alleviate persistent traffic congestion.
Officials Push for Coastal Highway
Governor Pamela Baricuatro revealed in a media interview on June 3, 2026, that the project was discussed during an earlier RDC meeting. Fourth District Representative Sun Shimura suggested building a coastal road instead of pursuing a separate transaction project. The proposal is now with the RDC for a feasibility study. If results are positive, construction could begin by late 2027 or 2028.
"We are not yet complete with the plan because it will go through the feasibility study," Baricuatro said. "There is a budget for a feasibility study, but we will look into how we are going to finance it. It could be a Public-Private Partnership, or the province could take out a loan. We'll see."
Economic Growth and Connectivity
The coastal road aims to link Cebu's far ends along the island's coastlines. Governor Baricuatro emphasized that connectivity is crucial for economic growth. Representative Shimura agreed, stating that if the project proves viable, it will drive economic development and boost tourism. He suggested the project could follow the model of major toll roads in Luzon.
"Since we are a premier province, let's see if we can do it and check the feasibility to see if it is also economically viable," Shimura said. "We can just base it on public transport. Not to mention the tourists, the private tourists, so this will really generate economic development and spur the economy of our province."
Proposed Route and Funding
Under the initial concept, the northern section would cover coastal areas from Daanbantayan's east side through Medellin and Tabogon. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 7 has already inquired about optimal starting points in both the north and south. Shimura noted that some existing coastal roads built during Fifth District Representative Duke Frasco's term might be integrated into this project.
Since the 2026 national budget is already finalized, the coastal road project will likely seek inclusion in the 2027 national budget. Shimura is open to private sector involvement to accelerate construction. "I proposed that we just start with our DPWH and then if there's a third party that would want to come in, it would be better," he said.
Safety Benefits for Schoolchildren
Beyond economic benefits, the new highway is expected to serve as a bypass, diverting long-distance traffic, public buses, and tourists away from busy town centers toward the coast. Shimura emphasized that this will greatly improve safety for residents, especially students.
"First is safety. That's what I manifested there in the RDC... It will greatly help the safety of our children," said Shimura. "If you pass through the national highway, you will pass by more or less 37 schools; imagine the safety of the kids who walk along the national highway."
This project marks a major turning point for Cebu's infrastructure. By moving traffic away from schools and creating a fast, reliable link across the island, the proposed coastal road aims to create a safer, more connected, and wealthier future for all Cebuanos.
