Helping ensure successful Sinulog
The success of the Sinulog celebration is not only the responsibility of the government and the Church. All of us, Cebuanos, have a large share in ensuring its success. We cannot leave it all to government officials and personnel and Church leaders to manage the celebration. Each one of us has a significant role to play.
There are at least three aspects where the citizens can help a lot. First, in the area of safety and security. Second, in the matter of cleanliness and sanitation. And third, in traffic management. Let us remember that the threat of terrorism is endemic and unpredictable. Let us expect the worst scenario but pray for the best. Let us also take not that every time we celebrate Sinulog, people always leave mountains of garbage and thus worsen our sanitation problem. And the traffic will be horrendous, let us not make it worse.
My definition of Sinulog success is when we can finish this celebration with no casualty in human life and property, no serious crime against person. Success shall also be measured when we shall have maintained cleanliness of our streets and public places, and that the people shall not exacerbate the heavy traffic situation. First, on the issue of security and safety, we should be vigilant and always be watchful. This is our city. We should protect it from all forms of risks and dangers. And any terroristic activity that may endanger lives and properties shall definitely be a slap at our faces. Let us report all suspicious characters and movements. Let us support the police and the military in protecting both citizens and tourists. Remember the person next to you may be an ISIS bomber or a serial killer.
Second, let us help in the sanitation and cleanup drive. This is our city. Let us pick up any thrash that the irresponsible visitors or our own fellow residents might have recklessly left behind or thrown away. It does not diminish our dignity to behave as if we own the whole place and we are concerned with waste papers, plastic containers, bottles or wrappers lying around. Let us not just allow our own kids to spit around or even relieve themselves along the sidestreets and canals. Let us always put in mind that the sanitation and cleanliness of this city are our collective responsibility. Let us also watch the street food vendors and report to the city health office all unsanitary practices and situations.
Lastly, in the matter of traffic management, we Cebuanos should help the authorities. If we can help it, let us avoid using our own cars and other vehicles to avoid exacerbating the volume of traffic. If we can walk, let us avoid taking any taxi or jeepney. Walking would be our offering to the Sr. Santo Niño. And it is even good for our health. Let us avoid jaywalking. If we can help manage the traffic, let us do so. Traffic is not the sole responsibility of government. We share in this huge problem. This is our city. The Sinulog is our celebration. Let us all join hands and make it another tremendous success.
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