Capitol in 5-year contract with CR operators

Amid mounting public confusion over Governor Pamela Baricuatro’s recent directive for free toilet use, the operator of some toilets in the Capitol-run bus terminals said the Cebu Provincial Government is bound by a five-year Public-Private Partnership contract with them.

- Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/BRP

Mister Loo Philippines said the agreement, which took effect on December 21, 2023 and runs until December 21, 2028, authorized them to operate upgraded restroom facilities at the Cebu South Bus Terminal and Cebu North Bus Terminal.

The contract also allows for renewal and sets usage fees of P10 for standard comfort room (CR) access and P20 for premium toilets with air-conditioning, soap, tissue, and modern amenities.

Under the deal, Mister Loo shares 5% of its monthly gross proceeds from CR fees with the provincial government. Some Mister Loo-operated restrooms operate 24/7.

The issue came to light following Executive Order No. 12, signed by Baricuatro on July 7, directing terminal management to halt CR fee collection. But since the current administration isn’t able to stop the existing contract, CR users who expected free entry to any toilet in the bus terminal were still asked to pay P10 for access to Mister Loo toilets.