Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro signed Executive Order 28 on May 12, 2026, mandating a unified truck ban across the province. The new rules apply to heavy vehicles exceeding 4,500 kg gross weight, including dump trucks, cargo trucks, and large container vans. The ban is in effect from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on national highways and provincial roads, but not on Sundays or holidays.
Ending Confusion and Gridlock
Previously, different cities had varying truck ban hours, forcing trucks to idle at borders and causing traffic jams. Governor Baricuatro called this lack of coordination "bureaucracy at its best." The unified schedule aims to eliminate these gridlocks and improve road safety. Special truck corridors in Mandaue City and Cebu City remain open 24/7 to ensure goods reach ports.
Economic Benefits
The fragmented rules contributed to Cebu's 9.1 percent inflation rate in March. With a predictable schedule, logistics companies can reduce operational costs by 15 to 20 percent, potentially lowering consumer prices. Eliazar Sabinay of the Cebu Provincial Development Office noted that the morning ban protects students and young professionals traveling to school and work.
Inconsistent Penalties
While ban hours are now uniform, penalties vary by locality. In Talisay City, third-time offenders face a P5,000 fine; Mandaue City charges P2,000 per violation; and the City of Naga imposes P500 for first-time offenders. Exemptions include emergency vehicles, military, and trucks carrying essential supplies like fuel and water.
The Provincial Government is urging Cebu City and Lapu-Lapu City to adopt the same hours for full regional synchronization. This collaborative effort aims to create a more efficient and safer road system for all Cebuanos.
