Party, liquor ban for Sinulog to remain

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City government will impose anew the liquor and entertainment ban along the Sinulog Grand Parade route next year.

The ban will take effect from January 19 to January 21, said City Councilor David Tumulak.

Tumulak, who also sits as executive committee chief of the Sinulog Foundaton Inc. (SFI), said he will recommend to Mayor Tomas Osmeña the issuance of an executive order banning liquors and street parties within the 300-meter radius of the parade route.

“Both sides gyud ang 300-meter radius along sa Sinulog Grand Parade route ug sa procession route. This will start on January 19 at 6 a.m. to January 21 at 6 a.m.,” he told reporters.

To ensure public order and safety, he said, expect stricter security measures for Sinulog Festival next year.

The ban was first implemented last year which stirred public criticisms.

The parade starts on Imus Road to General Maxilom Avenue, to Fuente Osmeña, down to Osmeña Boulevard and then to the Cebu City Sports Center for the ritual presentation.

Event organizers, he said, need to secure necessary permits from the city government.

Tumulak warned business owners not to violate the ban otherwise they will face appropriate sanctions or penalties.

Tumulak said the city government and SFI is also preparing for alternative communication systems in case signal shutdown is implemented.

The shutdown would prevent the use of phones from detonating improvised explosive devices (IED).

Aside from the ban, Tumulak said the city will soon start to demolish structures obstructing the sidewalk along the parade route as part of the Sinulog preparations.

All of these were discussed during yesterday’s meeting with representatives from the Cebu City Transportation Office, Department of Public Services, Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification Enhancement (PROBE) team, Division for the Welfare of the Urban Poor, and the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office. — KBQ (FREEMAN)