CEBU, Philippines - The Capitol earned an income of P54.5 million from the operations of Cebu South Bus Terminal for 2011 which is P1.6 million higher than P52.863 million in 2010.
In the last two months alone, November and December 2011, prior to holiday season, the terminal was able to collect more than P10 million in income.
The income is generated from passenger terminal fees of P5 each; bus terminal fees of P10 each entry, and stall rent and comfort room use fees.
While it had a target of P50 million last year, Provincial Treasurer Roy Salubre said for 2012, they targeted P60 million.
Salubre is hopeful the target will be met because of vibrant economic activities in the City and the Province of Cebu.
Almost all stalls in the second floor of the terminal building are now occupied.
But Salubre emphasized that income generation is only second to the main objective of providing efficient service to the riding public.
“Sometimes, service is sacrificed for income,” Salubre said.
At first the collection of the P5 terminal fee for each passenger was met with criticism.
But Salubre said after they were able to control individuals entering the terminal premises, the comfort and security improved. The waiting area is also air-conditioned.
When the terminal opened in 2009, it was already projected to gain P50 million which came into reality a year later.
Passengers need no longer worry about overcrowding and pickpockets in the terminal because of the presence of security personnel.
Prior to the renovation of the CSBT, the income of the terminal was only around P13 million. This rose to P33 million in 2009 when Garcia initiated some changes. (FREEMAN)