The public transport sector in Cebu has received PHP 20 million in fuel subsidies for bus operators, part of efforts to maintain regular trips and improve transportation services on routes serving the Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT) and Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT), according to terminal head Ahmed Cuizon.
Cuizon stated that the funds, downloaded from the national government through the Department of Transportation (DOTr), fall under the "Tabang Pambyahe" program, which provides financial assistance to bus operators.
"This fuel subsidy is beneficial because it provides financial aid to bus operators and ensures that trips are available every 20 minutes from 5:00 AM to 12:00 midnight," Cuizon said.
He explained that some operators have reduced the frequency or number of their trips due to rising fuel and crude oil prices. Buses often return to the terminal empty after reaching their destinations, causing operational losses.
"Bus operators have reduced their trips because they spend twice on fuel—from the destination to the terminal and from the terminal to the destination—but collect fares only once," Cuizon added.
Cuizon clarified that passenger numbers remain normal, but the reduced number of return trips makes it seem like there are fewer buses operating.
As a result, the subsidy is expected to help stabilize operations by covering fuel costs, enabling adherence to regular trip schedules.
Cuizon noted that a memorandum of agreement (MOA) has been signed between the DOTr and the Cebu Provincial Government to implement and ensure the rollout of this program.
He added that this initiative is expected to encourage operators to continue their routes even late at night, ensuring more reliable public transportation for passengers traveling through CNBT and CSBT.
