Uninterrupted transpo during Sinulog assured

Local

TRAVELERS can count on uninterrupted bus services to and from southern Cebu during the Sinulog 2025 Grand Parade on January 19.

For the first time in recent years, the Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT) will stay open while major roads in Cebu City close for the street dancing competition and the grand ritual showdown at the Cebu City Sports Center.

Although the CSBT remained open during the last two Sinulog Festivals held at South Road Properties, it was historically closed and temporarily relocated to distant areas when the festivities took place in Cebu City’s central district.

Buses will operate as usual, even with the closure of Natalio Bacalso Avenue, including the section near the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) and the CSBT. The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) has ensured that buses entering and exiting the terminal will be exempt from road closures, allowing passengers to access transportation throughout the celebrations.

For 25-year-old Carcar City resident Clarck Neil Alcontin, the development will be beneficial to him and others living in southern Cebu who wish to enjoy Sunday’s festivities.

“I appreciate this move since it will be a lot easier for us to move around. With this, I know many of us in southern Cebu will join the Sinulog Festival,” he told MyTV Cebu.

CCTO officials coordinated with local authorities, the Land Transportation Office (LTO), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and bus operators to finalize traffic management plans.

Pastor “Jongjong” Alcover II, head of CCTO’s Public Mass Transport Division, stated that they have implemented a system to maintain smooth traffic flow and minimize disruptions near the terminal.

To address potential violations, CCTO enforcers will photograph buses caught picking up or dropping off passengers outside the terminal and will forward the evidence to the LTO and LTFRB for action.

Emergency vehicles, including ambulances heading to CCMC, are also exempted from the road closures.

Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia urged bus operators to prioritize the safety of passengers by complying with regulations against overloading and the “no seat reservation” policy at the terminal.

She emphasized that following these measures is essential to ensure a safe and organized experience for travelers during the festivities.

Meanwhile, the LTFRB and LTO advised bus operators to adhere strictly to passenger limits to avoid penalties.

Situated near the 5.6-kilometer Sinulog Carousel Route, the CSBT anticipates a significant influx of passengers during the grand parade. Authorities have expressed confidence that the coordinated preparations will allow the festival to proceed smoothly for commuters and revelers alike.(MyTVCebu)