CCLEX to Put Up Cruise Ship-like Dining Destination at Cebu’s Third Bridge to Attract More Tourists

The popular and iconic Cebu Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) or Cebu’s third bridge, will add a “cruise ship” to its attraction.

It will not be a real cruise ship though, but a building that will look like a three-deck cruise ship that will become a “dining destination” and not just an ordinary toll service facility stop.

Compared to all other toll expressways, this stop will be able to sell liquor for those who will not be driving a vehicle. The permits are being secured by both the Cebu City government and the municipal government of Cordova.

The first “Drive and Dine” in the Visayas will be a 5,580 square-meter vacant lot along the CCLEX with a combined scenic view of the mangrove, the city, and the ocean.

The construction of the facility is estimated at around P300 million.

According to Renie Ticzon, MPT Mobility Division Head for Motorway Commercial Facilities, the concept in Cebu will be different from the Drive and Dine at North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) since that one is a stop for motorists.

Ticzon said that the Drive and Dine at CCLEX will be a world-class “Dining Destination” which will not only attract motorists but also tourists who want to dine and enjoy a good view of Cebu and the Mactan Channel.

“The Queen City of the South takes her food seriously and food can be such an excellent representation of the culture it stems from,” Ticzon added.

The ground floor of the cruise ship-looking facility will have fast food favorites. Its second floor will have a deck for formal dining for couples and lovers. The third floor will have Cebu favorites and barbecue perfect for group meals.

MPTC officials said that the facility will have a seating capacity of 1,000 people at a given time. It will also have parking space for 280 cars.

After its groundbreaking today, the new facility will be opened after 8 to 6 months of construction or before the end of 2024.

The CCLEX has a motor vehicle traffic of 20,000 per day, according to CCLEX President and General Manager Allan Alfon. (ZAG)