THE public will notice two changes in this year’s celebration of the Sinulog.
First, light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs will be installed along the solemn procession and the grand parade routes.
Then over at the Devotee City, Sto. Niño pilgrims from out of town will have first access to improvised sleeping quarters. They will be given priority over
merchants.
If Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella’s plan will push through, the use of single-use plastic and styrofoam containers will also be banned during the Sinulog weekend on Jan. 18 and 19.
The City Council already requested Sinulog organizers not to allow single-use plastic and styrofoam containers in the VIP section at the Cebu City Sports Center grandstand.
The council also urged the Department of Public Services, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office and establishments along Sinulog routes to install trash bins and eco-stations so garbage can be managed properly.
City Councilor Alvin Dizon, sponsor of the resolution, appealed to Labella to issue an executive order to implement these measures.
The mayor echoed the councilor’s sentiments, saying he “shares the same advocacy with Dizon.”
Labella said he will issue an order once he gets a copy of the resolution.
Sinulog Foundation Inc. executive director Elmer “Jojo” Labella, the mayor’s brother, said he will try to implement the ban given the short notice, adding that he will coordinate with concerned agencies to inform them about it.
Meanwhile, Labella said 3,000 LED bulbs will be installed along Gen. Maxilom Ave., Fuente Osmeña and Osmeña Blvd. all the way to the Basilica del Sto. Niño. He hopes that brightening these thoroughfares will deter crime, especially since street parties will once again be allowed in some areas.
At the Devotee City, around 100 container vans will be used to accommodate around 3,000 persons, said City Councilor Phillip Zafra, officer-in-charge of the Devotee City.
The Devotee City is located next to the Compania Maritima Bldg. along the South Road Properties.
Zafra said registration and distribution of the identification cards will be on Jan. 17.
He reminded the public that drinking of alcoholic beverages, use of illegal drugs and smoking are not allowed at the Devotee City. (JJL)