Cebu City Unveils 24/7 Government Services Hub to Cater to Night-Shift Workers
Cebu City has officially launched its innovative 24/7 Government Services Hub, a facility designed to provide round-the-clock access to essential public services, particularly for night-shift workers in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector. Located on the second floor of the Cebu Exchange Tower along Salinas Drive in Barangay Lahug, the hub opened its doors on Monday, April 6, 2026, with Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña visiting to inspect operations and ensure smooth functionality.
Consolidated Services for Enhanced Accessibility
The hub consolidates key government offices under one roof, including the City Health Office, Office of the City Registrar (OCR), Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO), Business Permit and Licensing Office, and the City Treasurer's Office. This strategic integration allows residents to process documents, pay fees, and access critical services without disrupting their daily schedules, especially benefiting those who work unconventional hours. During its first day of operation, SunStar Cebu observed more than five individuals utilizing the services around 6 p.m., with the CCTO and OCR handling the majority of transactions.
Addressing Growing Demand and Operational Concerns
Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña expressed confidence in the hub's potential, noting that the demand for night-time government services is expected to grow significantly in the coming months. He highlighted the large BPO workforce in Cebu City, citing that applications for National Bureau of Investigation clearances alone reach 20,000 to 30,000 annually. However, Osmeña admitted concerns about the facility's capacity, stating, "I'm worried that we will be overwhelmed because this is not a big place," emphasizing the need for efficient management to avoid congestion during peak hours.
In defense of the project against cost-related criticisms, Osmeña asserted that the benefits far outweigh the expenses. "I don't mind spending money as long as you get something in return. Give me a million pesos worth of services," he said, underscoring the hub's value in improving public access and convenience. Additionally, shifting transactions to nighttime is anticipated to help ease daytime traffic by reducing the number of people visiting government offices during peak hours.
Industry Consultation and Operational Details
The design and implementation of the hub were based on consultations with BPO industry leaders, as explained by Nanette Garong, officer-in-charge of the Mayor of the Night office. She noted that the most common concern among workers is completing pre-employment requirements, which prompted the inclusion of key frontline offices. The hub operates 24/7, including weekends, following a three-shift system where regular personnel receive two days off, while job order workers report for 22 days per month. Although open to everyone, the operating hours are aligned with BPO schedules to better serve night-shift workers.
Future Expansion and Positive Initial Feedback
Currently, only City Government offices are operational at the hub, but construction for spaces allocated to national agencies is ongoing. These agencies are expected to begin operations within two to three weeks once contractors complete the fit-out. Garong described the rollout as a soft launch with minimal promotion, allowing the City to focus on refining processes and ensuring consistent service delivery. Initial feedback from clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the transactions as fast and convenient. The project moved swiftly from approval to opening, with the lease contract signed on March 2 and the facility launched less than a month later. Garong confirmed that a four-day workweek will not be implemented, as the hub follows US-based working hours and remains open on weekends to maintain accessibility.
