Senator Raffy Tulfo has responded to Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia after she accused him of ignorance regarding the law following his criticism of passenger fees being charged at the Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT), which he said violates Republic Act 11311.
In a Senate committee hearing video posted on his social media, Tulfo—who chairs the Senate Committee on Public Services—highlighted several violations he observed at the CNBT.
Although Garcia was not named in the video, she previously questioned Tulfo’s inspection of the terminal, which is operated by the provincial government, and dismissed his findings.
During the hearing, Tulfo cited Republic Act 11311, also known as the “Act to Improve Land Transportation Terminals,” which prohibits charging passengers for the use of standard restrooms.
Tulfo urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to inspect the terminal immediately.
He clarified that terminals can only charge for the use of premium comfort rooms—such as air-conditioned or upgraded facilities—provided these are offered as separate services.
Tulfo gave an example that charging for an air-conditioned restroom may be justified under the law, but basic toilet use must remain free.
He also stressed the need for safety enhancements at terminals, instructing the LTFRB to install glass breakers to ensure emergency preparedness for both drivers and passengers.
Following Tulfo’s findings, the LTFRB has directed its Central Visayas regional director to issue a show-cause order in response to the reported violations.