Upgrades at the Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT) remain stalled as the Cebu Provincial Government continues negotiations with a private mall over its property agreement. Terminal Administrator Ahmed Cuizon stated on Thursday, May 21, 2026, that the absence of a new contract prevents the construction of permanent facilities on the private property. The previous agreement was co-terminous with the past administration.
Operational Workarounds
Cuizon explained that without a renewed usufruct agreement, the terminal cannot build permanent structures. This forces the administration to rely on temporary measures, such as renting two portable toilets at a cost of PHP 5,000 daily to provide free sanitation for passengers. During peak seasons like Holy Week and Christmas, the province also covers the cost of existing commercial restrooms to allow free public use.
Low electrical voltage is another pressing issue. Without a signed contract, the province cannot request Visayan Electric Company to install a transformer or upgrade the electrical load. Consequently, a backup generator remains on standby to ensure stable power. “There are times even that the voltage is so low we have to use a generator,” Cuizon said.
Stalled Tourism Facilities
The open-air terminal setup often causes discomfort, especially in hot weather. The Provincial Government, in partnership with the Provincial Tourism Office, plans to build a dedicated tourist lounge for travelers heading to destinations like Malapascua. “The governor has always emphasized that we should always uphold comfort and convenience to passengers including tourists,” Cuizon noted. However, construction remains on hold until property clearances are secured.
The Economic Enterprise Council, led by Paulo Uy, is handling negotiations with the private partner. Once finalized, the contract will be submitted to the Provincial Board for approval. Cuizon described the talks as non-adversarial and part of a normal procedure for public-private agreements. “It’s an ongoing process between two entities and it’s a normal procedure every time there is an agreement that the Province of Cebu wants to enter with the private sector,” he clarified.
The Cebu Province operates both the CNBT and the Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT), with the latter on province-owned property. The province aims to complete legal requirements soon to proceed with improvements aligned with the governor’s directive for better commuter and tourist convenience.
