Travelers exploring Cebu can look forward to a more comfortable journey as provincial authorities launch a major effort to solve a common problem: finding clean and accessible public toilets.
Island-Wide Search for Tourist-Friendly Facilities
The Provincial Tourism Office (PTO) has initiated a comprehensive, island-wide survey to pinpoint clean and accessible comfort rooms. The search focuses on key locations along highways, including gasoline stations and designated tourism rest areas. Provincial Tourism Head Rowena Montecillo revealed the details in an interview with SunStar Cebu on December 23, 2025.
Montecillo explained that the lack of proper facilities has been a persistent issue for visitors. "That has always been one of the things that we lack—where they can use clean toilets," she stated. The initial phase of the project relies on inputs from local city and municipal tourism officers who have identified potential sites.
Verification and Inspection Process Begins in 2026
Merely identifying locations is not enough. A dedicated verification team from the PTO will start on-site inspections in January 2026 to assess each facility thoroughly. The team will check several critical factors:
- Cleanliness of the comfort rooms.
- Their operating hours and general accessibility.
- Availability of parking.
- Whether use is free or requires a payment.
Montecillo emphasized the need for this validation, noting that not all gas stations and roadside establishments maintain usable facilities. The survey will also evaluate Department of Tourism (DOT)-accredited tourism rest areas, existing spots like Hapitanan sa Sugbo, bus stops with toilets, and other possible roadside locations.
Improved Tourist Experience and Potential Partnerships
Once the verification process is complete, the PTO will compile a finalized list of approved comfort rooms. This information will be shared with tourists and tour operators through digital links and informational materials. These guides will specify locations, days and hours of operation, and other accessibility details.
The provincial office is also looking to collaborate with the private sector. Private establishments willing to join the initiative and open their facilities to tourists may receive incentives or official recognition from the provincial government.
The core goal of this project is to elevate the overall tourism experience in Cebu by directly addressing a long-standing inconvenience for travelers. By ensuring access to clean and reliable comfort rooms, especially along major travel routes, the PTO aims to make exploring the island more pleasant and hassle-free.
