Fiesta Señor 2024: Rama: Don’t change route for processions

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama does not want changes in the procession routes for the Fiesta Señor even with the ongoing civil works of Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) Project.

"I do not want changes of the route of the Walk for Jesus and Walk for Mary," Rama told reporters in a press conference via Zoom yesterday while he was still in Australia for his vacation leave.

Previously, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño announced that the routes for Walk with Jesus and Walk with Mary next year will not be the same as last year because of the BRT project along the stretch of Osmeña Boulevard.

According to Rama, his directives must prevail including his call to hasten the removal of the two skywalks on Osmena Boulevard that will be affected by the project.

"Kailangan kanang issue sa skywalk, no not wait until I take the lead of removing it," said Rama.

Rama calls out the BRT project management and reminded them that they are not the "boss" in the city.

"The boss is the city of the people of Cebu and we should not be adjusting to them," said Rama.

He added the BRT project was not launched for it to be delayed. He also reiterated the original agreement wherein phase 1 of the project should be functional in December this year.

In line with this, Rama emphasized that the usual route for religious processions must not be compromised by the CBRT civil works.

Previously, CRBT Manager Engineer Norvin Imbong said that they would have to wait for clearance from the Commission on Audit (COA) before they could remove and transfer the skywalks to the South Road Properties (SRP). — (FREEMAN)