Massive P199-Billion Coastal Railway and Transit Upgrades Set to Transform Metro Cebu
For daily commuters weary of enduring Metro Cebu's notorious traffic congestion, significant relief is on the horizon. The National Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to construct a massive P199-billion coastal railway, stretching from Danao City to Carcar City. This transformative project is designed to alleviate the heavy traffic plaguing everyday travelers while simultaneously stimulating the local economy.
A Long-Term Transportation Solution
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced this extensive initiative during a forum on Friday, February 20, 2026. At the heart of the plan is the 67.5-kilometer Metro Cebu Urban Mass Rapid Transit system, which will feature a dedicated 25-kilometer line directly connecting to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in Lapu-Lapu City.
The government is set to commence the procurement process for the project's feasibility study by March 2026, with the study itself slated to begin by October 2026. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has emphasized the goal of completing at least the feasibility phase before his term concludes in 2028. According to Lopez, the DOTr is collaborating closely with local governments, and the National Government anticipates finalizing the entire railway by 2040.
Immediate Improvements with BRT and Free Rides
While the railway will require years to materialize, commuters can expect more immediate enhancements on the roads. The first package of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit system is nearing completion and is scheduled to open by March 2026. This initial phase, running from the Cebu South Bus Terminal to Fuente Osmeña, is projected to serve 34,000 passengers daily, as stated by Lopez.
To complete the remaining 35 kilometers of the bus system, the National Government is exploring public-private partnerships (PPP). Lopez highlighted that the DOTr is prioritizing these collaborations to ensure the sustainable operations and maintenance of these multibillion-peso investments.
For cyclists and public transport users, Lopez further noted that the DOTr has established 189 kilometers of bike lanes across Metro Cebu. An additional P498-million initiative will soon extend this network by 13 more kilometers and introduce 26 new public utility vehicle stops.
Meanwhile, the Love Bus Libreng Sakay program continues with a P360 million budget. As of February 2026, this service has provided 3.43 million free rides along two major Cebu routes, according to Lopez.
Enhancing Ports and Airports for Regional Growth
The infrastructure upgrades extend to maritime and aviation facilities, aiming to solidify Central Visayas as a key logistics hub. The New Cebu International Container Port in Consolacion, northern Cebu, is currently under development to handle increased international cargo. It is now over 20 percent complete, according to the DOTr, and will help alleviate pressure on the existing baseport in Cebu City.
The government also expects to finalize the San Fernando Port this year, adding roll-on, roll-off ramps to improve cargo handling efficiency. To safeguard these roads and facilities, the transportation department will mandate the installation of weighbridges at every port to prevent truck overloading.
In aviation, capacity has already seen substantial growth. A PPP project at the MCIA has expanded its annual passenger capacity from 7.5 million to 14 million. A runway rehabilitation project there is set to conclude in the second quarter of this year, reinforcing the pavement to enhance safety during adverse weather conditions. A similar partnership at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport has nearly doubled its capacity, improving operations and boosting economic activity.
The Road Ahead for Cebu's Future
These multibillion-peso investments are poised to fundamentally reshape travel and business in the province. From the imminent launch of the new bus system in March 2026 to the grand vision of a 2040 coastal railway, Cebu's daily commuters now have a clear roadmap toward a faster, more efficient, and reliable future.
