Some transients shun Devotee City

CEBU, Philippines - Despite the Cebu City Government’s efforts to put up temporary shelters for out-of-towners who are in Cebu for the Feast of the Sto. Niño, some transients still prefer to put up shanties and sleep along the sidewalks.

The transients said that as much as they want to stay at the 20-footer container vans placed at the Compana Maritima in South Road Properties, they prefer to stay within the vicinity of the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño Church.

They said they are here in the City to sell candles and making some business.

“Diri gyud mi kay mamaligya man pud mi. Maayo nalang nga mahalinan mi kay higayon man pud gyud karon ilabi na kung Pista Señor,” a 50-year old woman from Carcar said.

The Devotee City, which opened yesterday, can accommodate up to 2,000 persons who cannot afford to stay in hotels and pension houses and it is free of charge.

Cebu City Councilor Roberto Cabarrubias, chairman of the Devotee City, warned people who camp along the sidewalks of risks to their security.

As of yesterday, the Devotee City recorded 1,047 transients. They are expecting more today but assured that there’s room for more.

To qualify for a space, a visitor has to show boat or bus tickets as well as valid identification to prove that they are from outside Cebu.

This discourages revelers from Cebu City and nearby areas from taking advantage of the free lodging.

Transients and Sto. Niño devotees who would avail of free accommodation at the Devotee City would be given free food such as noodles, bread and ice cream. Children also get vitamins while free medicines will be on stand by in cases of illnesses and emergencies.

The accommodation includes a bath area and a dirty kitchen where devotees could prepare their own meals. The Metro Cebu Water District will provide potable water while policemen and barangay watchmen will provide security.

The Cebu City Government has been designating a Devotee City for 16 years now. The concept was initiated by the late councilor Fe Mantua-Ruiz.  (FREEMAN)