Cebu’s biggest bus terminal goes cashless with use of ‘tap cards’

The Cebu South Bus Terminal implements the use of “tap cards” as it goes cashless amid the COVID-19 pandemic. (DALE ISRAEL/INQUIRER VISAYAS)

CEBU CITY –– Cebu’s biggest bus terminal has started shifting to the use of “tap cards” as it veers towards being cashless and minimize contact amid the continuing threats of COVID-19.

Officials launched the automated ticketing system for the Cebu South Bus Terminal in a ceremony today, May 18. The ticketing system includes the use of reloadable tap cards.

Passengers will no longer need to pay onboard the buses and will just tap their cards at the terminal.

At present, cash options use one-time QR Code tickets purchased at ticketing booths inside the terminal.

The ticketing booths are where there are cash transactions at the bus terminal operated by the Cebu provincial government, which hired the services of Topline Hi-Tech Synergy Corporation.

During the launch, Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia was joined by Topline CEO Eugene Frederik Lim, Land Transportation Office Central Visayas director Victor Caindec, and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board director Eduardo Montealto Jr.

In her speech, Garcia described the new development as “one shining moment” for Cebu.

She said plans to go “cashless” were made in 2019. With the advent of the pandemic, the need for the system became a necessity.

Passengers can now purchase a reloadable Suroy-Suroy Sugbo card at P100 or buy a one-time QR-code ticket so they can access the terminal bays.

Upon entry into the passenger waiting area, one needs their tap card or QR-code ticket before boarding the bus.

Since the system is new in Cebu, designated guides assist passengers.

With at least 5,000 people per day, the Cebu South Bus Terminal is also an important jump-off point for passengers from Cebu City going to Ro-Ro ports to nearby islands like Negros.