CCTO: Brace for long walks, road closures

CEBU, Philippines — Long walks and more road closures are expected as the Sinulog Grand Parade returns to the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) on January 19.

Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) chief Raquel Arce said they have started mapping up a massive rerouting for the upcoming events, including the Sinulog Festival.

Although it is still being finalized and needs approval from the City Traffic Management Board and the City Council, Arce is already informing the public ahead to plan their trips in the coming days.

“Kon you have plans pag-adto sa probinsya on a Sunday kanang sa Sinulog you have to go out as early as 4 o’clock dawn,” Arce said.

Arce also warned passengers that they may not be dropped “door to door” during the event, especially those whose actual destinations are in the affected areas. According to Arce, road closures on January 19 will start at 4 a.m.

Those who are coming from the South, vehicles may only be allowed until the corner of Natalio Bacalso Avenue and V. Rama. Those who want to go to the CCSC to watch the Sinulog Grand Showdown will have to take a long walk from there.

From the North, vehicles will only be up to Sergio Osmena Avenue, at the back of the Cebu Technical University (CTU). Vehicles coming from Talamban area may only be allowed up until the Cebu Business Park.

Arce said they will be implementing a “no entry” in different areas to ensure order during the Sinulog Grand Parade. Vehicles that will be caught parking in no-entry areas will be towed.

 “Gitan-aw nato nga ang area sa parade route is purely pedestrian ra gyud. Kun adunay mga sakyanan nga anaa sa tunga mababoy naka diha kay dili na gyud ka kagawas,” said Arce.

The CCTO is also expected to be in full force to man the streets during the Sinulog. (CEBU NEWS)