The provincial government has partnered with 17 establishments across nine towns and six cities under its Clean Toilet Stop program, an initiative that provides tourists and travelers with access to clean and safe restroom facilities.
These designated toilet stops include gas stations, bus terminals and stops, boardwalks, public plazas, public markets, and other facilities along major tourism and transportation routes throughout Cebu Province.
Some private establishments charge a minimal fee to help finance facility upkeep. The locations of these facilities can be accessed via a QR code available on the province’s website and Facebook page.
The initiative is expected to benefit motorists, commuters, tourists, and residents traveling across Cebu by ensuring convenient access to quality restroom facilities in key destinations and along major road networks.
Inspection
Provincial Tourism Officer Rowena Montecillo said participating establishments had been inspected and validated to ensure they met the standards set under the Clean Toilet Stop Partnership Program.
She said the Capitol encouraged local government units and private establishments to enroll their restrooms in the program, adding that the provincial government was ready to support participating partners in maintaining their facilities.
In June, the province and 17 establishments signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Clean Toilet Stop Partnership Program, which aims to improve visitor convenience while strengthening Cebu's tourism infrastructure by ensuring clean and accessible restrooms are available at key locations across the province.
Under the agreement, Montecillo said the province would undertake minor initial repairs and include participating establishments in its tourism promotions. "They are now on Google Maps through our QR code," she said.
The province will also provide cleaning supplies and install stickers at participating restrooms. Subject to the availability of funds, it also plans to install directional signages leading to and at partner establishments.
Montecillo said the Capitol allows some private establishments to charge minimal restroom fees, noting that the collections help cover maintenance costs.
Partners
The 17 establishments are as follow:
Northern Cebu
Southern Cebu
Metro Cebu
Simple matter, lasting impression
During the MOA signing, Baricuatro thanked business owners, managers, and local chief executives for participating in the initiative, describing tourism development as a shared responsibility among all sectors.
“Many may see this as a simple matter, but in tourism, small details leave lasting impressions. A clean toilet enhances the visitor experience, promotes public health, and strengthens Cebu’s reputation as a premier tourism destination,” Baricuatro said in her message.
“As governor, I believe that tourism is not measured only by the number of visitors we receive. It is measured by the quality of experiences we provide. It is measured by how comfortable, safe, and welcomed our guests feel while exploring our province,” she added. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
Contributor
