The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is set to begin a feasibility study for Cebu’s proposed mass rail transit system by October 2026, according to Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez.
Lopez said the agency is prioritizing major transport projects in Cebu to improve daily commuting and support economic growth in the region. The move follows President Bongbong Marcos’ directive to speed up infrastructure development nationwide, expanding efforts beyond Metro Manila.
Among the key projects under study is the Metro Cebu Urban Mass Rapid Transit (UMRT), a proposed 67.5-kilometer railway from Danao City to Carcar City, with a 25-kilometer line connecting to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Lopez said coordination with local governments will begin once the feasibility study is underway, stressing that the project is a national priority.
Meanwhile, Package 1 of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project is nearing completion. It includes stations at Cebu South Bus Terminal, Cebu Normal University, and Fuente Station. Once operational, the BRT is expected to serve about 34,000 passengers daily.
The DOTr is also pursuing other projects in the region, including new bike lanes, the Love Bus Free Ride Program, the New Cebu International Container Port, the San Fernando Port, and ongoing public-private partnership projects at Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Bohol-Panglao International Airport.
Lopez emphasized that the DOTr’s focus is not limited to Metro Manila, but also aims to improve transport links in provinces and regional centers across the country.
