The Cordova Municipal Council has unanimously approved Ordinance 2026-031, which increases environmental and terminal fees at the Cordova Roro Port Terminal effective June 19, 2026. The measure aims to generate revenue for port facility maintenance, coastal resource protection, and local waste management programs.
Why the Fees Are Changing
Mayor Cesar "Didoy" Suan signed the ordinance, which was authored by Councilor Lemuel Pogoy and approved by the council on May 25, 2026. The new measure is designed to manage rising passenger and vehicle traffic while keeping the port clean, safe, and orderly. As part of this update, the environmental user's fee will increase from P15 to P20 for all port users. This money will directly fund coastal resource management, waste management, sanitation, and other environmental initiatives.
The New Fee Breakdown
Regular travelers will see the passenger terminal fee rise to P15 from P10. Meanwhile, students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities will pay a discounted rate of P10. Drivers will also face a new terminal fee structure based on their vehicle type:
- Motorcycles: P25
- Tricycles: P50
- Private cars and vans: P100
- Light trucks and public utility jeepneys: P150
- Heavy trucks and buses: P200
Who Is Covered and Who Is Exempt?
The new rules apply to almost everyone using the facility. The ordinance states, "This ordinance shall apply to all passengers, vehicles, cargo, transport operators, and other port users utilizing the Cordova Roro Port Terminal within the territorial jurisdiction of the Municipality of Cordova, Cebu." However, several groups are completely exempt from paying these fees, including children under five years old, ambulances, fire trucks, emergency response vehicles, and government vehicles or uniformed personnel on official business.
Where the Money Goes and Penalties
The Municipal Treasurer's Office or authorized agents will collect the fees and deposit them into the Municipality's General Fund. The revenue is specifically set aside for port maintenance, marine environmental programs, solid waste management, security, traffic management, and disaster preparedness. To ensure compliance, the ordinance outlines strict penalties for fee evasion, unauthorized collection, fake receipts, or fund misappropriation. Offenders face fines ranging from P1,000 to P2,500, a jail term of up to six months, or both, depending on the court's decision.
With the June 19 launch date approaching, travelers heading out of Cordova should prepare for these minor rate adjustments. These extra pesos are designed to ensure that the port remains a safe, sustainable, and well-maintained gateway for everyone traveling between Cebu and Bohol.
