Editorial - Visitors do not come to Cebu to see Paris

CEBU, Philippines - Even those who have never been there cannot argue against the fact that Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are millions of photos to prove it, and the dozens of songs that mention its name must have beauty among its many inspirations.

And among the most visited attractions of Paris is the “Avenue des Champs-Elysees” which many consider to be the most beautiful avenue in the world. This must be the reason why there is now a proposal to create a version of that Paris street here.

Again, it is hard to argue against beauty. So if Cebu City can have its own version of the Champs-Elysees, why not? But first a few questions. Do we really have to? And once we have it, wouldn't it just stick out like a sore thumb amid the sobering reality of what Cebu City is?

Perhaps the best thing to do is put our entire house in order first by ensuring a few basic things: Well-paved roads, proper drainage, no garbage piles in sight, no ugly “spaghetti wires” and properly-oriented sidewalk vendors. Only then can we move to more fanciful things.

For of what moment will a Champs-Elysees replica in all its resplendent beauty be if all it does is highlight the sordid contrast presented by the rest of the city? If we have to dream, then let us dream big enough to encompass reality.

Patchwork beautification must not be resorted to at the expense of real attention to the basic elements that make a city beautiful simply because its people are content and happy. We have long been claiming to be the Queen City of the South. Let's put truth to the claim first.

There is a reason why well-paved roads is first in the list of basic things mentioned above. In every city the world over, be it big or small, famous or obscure, the first impression of the first-time visitor almost always springs from the condition of its streets.

To be jolted into a toothache by potholes or rendered incoherent by dust shortly after arriving will almost always fill the visitor with both regret and dread at having made the stupid mistake of choosing this or that city to visit.

 That is why most cities with any self-respect see no need to emulate Paris or its famous Champs-Elysees. They just try to present the best of what they are. Visitors do not come to Cebu to see a little bit of Paris. They come to see Cebu. So let's give them the best of ourselves. (FREEMAN)