The planned upgrade of the Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT) remains dependent on the completion of standard property negotiations between the provincial government and a prominent mall in the city.
Contract Issues Stall Long-Term Projects
According to CNBT and Cebu South Bus Terminal Administrator Ahmed Cuizon, in an interview on Thursday, May 21, 2026, the lack of an active usufruct contract is the reason why long-term projects at the terminal are on standby. While the Economic Enterprise Council processes the standard and legal renewal of the contract with the private partner, the terminal relies only on temporary measures.
Legal Status Limits Construction
Due to the legal status of the land, the province is not yet authorized to construct permanent concrete facilities on the private lot. To continue service, the terminal temporarily seeks daily solutions. Currently, the province spends PHP 5,000 per day to rent two portalets so that passengers can use free restrooms. During peak seasons like Holy Week and Christmas, the provincial government itself pays the fees of existing commercial restrooms inside to make them free for public use.
Passenger Comfort and Infrastructure Gaps
The lack of roofing in some parts of the terminal often inconveniences passengers, especially during hot weather. The terminal administration has coordinated with the Provincial Tourism Office to plan a tourist lounge for passengers heading to northern destinations such as Malapascua and Tabuelan. However, construction cannot begin until the agreement is signed.
In addition, low voltage significantly affects the terminal. The province cannot request assistance from Visayan Electric Company to install a transformer or upgrade the electrical load without property clearance. For now, the terminal relies on a standby generator from the province to keep the lights on and ensure uninterrupted operations.
