Organizers to Sinulog revelers: Ditch your cars, ride buses

Local

INSTEAD of bringing private cars into the crowded downtown streets, Cebuanos are being urged to ride public buses during Sinulog and the Fiesta Señor celebrations to ease traffic near the Basilica del Sto. Niño.

Starting Jan. 8, 40 MyBus units will ply the route from South Road Properties (SRP) to Plaza Independencia, offering commuters a minimum fare of P15 until Jan. 18, the day of the Sinulog Festival.

The city said the buses are part of a broader effort to provide a safe, affordable, and convenient option for devotees traveling from both northern and southern provinces.

Councilor Dave Tumulak said the city will conduct consultations with barangay leaders and information campaigns to inform the public about the bus operations.

Private vehicles coming from the provinces, he added, should be parked at malls that have coordinated with the city to allow devotees to use their parking spaces.

This measure is intended to prevent congestion and ensure the smooth flow of traffic, especially within the Basilica area.

“Importante kaayo kahapsay atoang mga kadalanan ug komportable man pud sila mosakay sa mga buses nato no?” Tumulak said.

He explained that keeping the streets clear is critical for both safety and accessibility, and that the MyBus units will help minimize overcrowding and the risks associated with heavy parking near the festival route.

The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) will implement temporary road closures and traffic adjustments from Jan. 8 to 18 in observance of the Sinulog 2026 Novena Masses.

Affected roads include Osmeña Boulevard, D. Jakosalem Street, P. Burgos Street, P. Zamora Street, Magallanes Street, F. Gonzales Street, and Magallanes Extension.

Several streets will have one-way traffic adjustments, including M. C. Briones Street, M. L. Quezon Boulevard, P. Burgos Street, and D. Jakosalem Extension, to ensure smoother vehicle flow.

CCTO Assistant Head Kent Francesco Jongoy said the office will implement multiple road closures around the Basilica to ensure devotees can walk safely and comfortably during the festival.

He added that the combination of MyBus units, other public transport operators, and traffic adjustments is intended to allow devotees to reach the Basilica safely and efficiently during Sinulog and Fiesta Señor celebrations.

City officials reminded motorists to follow traffic enforcers, observe all posted signs, and plan alternate routes while traveling within affected areas.

They encouraged the public to take advantage of the MyBus service as part of the city’s effort to maintain order, safety, and accessibility during one of Cebu’s busiest festival periods.(MyTVCebu)