THE multisectoral convergence group of the Cebu City Government has agreed on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023 that it will recommend to Mayor Michael Rama to ban street parties and impose a liquor ban along the new and old Sinulog Grand Parade routes.
The group’s recommendation runs contrary to what then Cebu City mayor Edgardo Labella did in Sinulog 2020 when he eased some of the restrictions imposed by his predecessor, former mayor Tomas Osmeña.
Labella banned drinking and selling of liquor only within a radius of 100 meters from the procession and grand parade routes.
He also allowed street parties but outside the 100-meter radius of the parade route.
The old Sinulog Grand Parade covers parts of N. Bacalso Ave., P. del Rosario St., New Imus Road, Gen. Maxilom Ave. and Osmeña Blvd. in the uptown area.
The new venue for this year’s Sinulog Festival is the South Road Properties.
According to a report posted on the Cebu City Public Information Office’s website, the group made the recommendation as a precautionary measure against any untoward incident.
“Crowds flock together to drink and party, which becomes uncontrollable. We don’t want the worst to happen,” said Raquel Arce, head of the Cebu City Traffic Office and a member of the city’s multisectoral convergence group.
Aside from recommending a ban on street parties and liquor, the group also suggested banning revelers from carrying backpacks and prohibiting the use of pyrotechnics.
It also wants the stringent implementation of laws on the use of firearms, illegal substances and littering during the Sinulog.
Lawyer Collin Rosell, Rama’s executive secretary, said he will submit the group’s recommendation to the mayor for the crafting of an executive order. (PR)