Sinulog 2026 prep begins

CEBU, Philippines — As early as August, the Cebu City Government, through Councilor Dave Tumulak, has already begun preparations for Sinulog 2026 by filing multiple resolutions before the council, as it is poised to be a Sinulog that is inclusive and highly collaborative.

In an interview yesterday, Tumulak said they are already holding a series of meetings to begin preparations for the annual festivity. He said they have already outlined the respective tasks and responsibilities of each elected city official during the Sinulog.

He added that this initiative comes upon the order of Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr., stating that all city councilors shall take part in the festival and must contribute accordingly.

Over the next few days, Tumulak said they will be meeting with the Sinulog executive committee to prepare not only the personnel but also logistical support for both the Sinulog and the Fiesta Se or.

Among the proposals they plan to present to the Basilica Minore del Santo Ni o for the Fiesta Se or is the Ni o, Bisita sa Barangay, alongside visits to the Cebu City Jail, an initiative Tumulak started back in 2016.

Before sa Walk with Jesus sa January (it will happen) ug sa Opening Salvo, said Tumulak.

As the chairman of the Committee on Disaster of the City Council and its executive counterpart, Tumulak said next year’s Sinulog is expected to be different, with a focus on being more inclusive and participative for all stakeholders, including barangays and the private sector.

Kinahanglan ato ning isayo kay ang Sinulog not only for the Cebuano but all visitors, other stakeholders, it should be worked hand-in-hand for the success of the Sinulog 2026, said Tumulak.

This inclusivity applies not only to law enforcement agencies but also to private sector groups that are expected to lend their support to the event.

In terms of programs, Tumulak said there is no finality yet, but hinted that new segments may be introduced.

On the Sinulog route, Tumulak said they are leaning toward using the same stretch along Osme a Boulevard. However, he noted they will need to coordinate with the Department of Transportation to align with the planned pilot test of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit, which is initially scheduled for September.

For this year, 2024, Tumulak acknowledged that one of the biggest challenges faced by the city government was crowd control, based on recommendations from last year's post-mortem report. He said this issue is a primary focus of their preparations, along with modifications to the event program.

Among the measures Tumulak has pushed before the council is the coordination of all activities. Event organizers planning Sinulog-related events will be required to submit detailed proposals and security plans to the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO), and Cebu City Police Office by December 1, 2025.

The council also approved Tumulak s proposal for road closures from January 5 to 18, 2026. This includes major thoroughfares such as Osme a Boulevard, D. Jakosalem Street, and Magallanes Street, among others. In line with this, the CCTO was tasked with providing legislative recommendations and public notifications.

Additionally, the council approved the establishment of a no-parking zone within a 100-meter radius of the basilica from January 5 to 18, 2026. Violations will be subject to towing and fines.

Another resolution seeks the temporary closure of the Cebu South Bus Terminal on January 18, 2026, with operations to be transferred to the South Road Properties (El Pardo or Industrial Road Site) from 3 A.M. on January 19 until the end of the festivities.

In addition, Tumulak has requested that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines declare no-fly zones over the solemn procession and Sinulog Grand Parade routes on January 17 and 18, 2026, with exceptions granted to the Philippine National Police for security purposes.

Tumulak also called for prioritization of infrastructure and public convenience. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) was asked to inspect and repair major roads, addressing potholes, and uneven surfaces along the Sinulog parade route.

Another request was made to DPWH-7 to allow the Sinulog Foundation, Inc. to install promotional banners on city skywalks from December 1, 2025, to January 20, 2026. Meanwhile, the Cebu Contractors Association was also asked to install temporary mobile bleachers for public use during the main festival days.

Furthermore, the Office of the City Markets was tasked with formulating comprehensive policies on street vending during the festival, promoting orderly practices, and ensuring guidelines are available in clear language, including Cebuano.

Lastly, public amenities were also taken into consideration, as establishments along the parade route were encouraged to open their comfort rooms to the public from January 18 to 20, 2026 --either for free or for a minimal fee. — /BRP (FREEMAN)