Garcia clarifies: No signal shutdown today

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Raymond Garcia clarified yesterday that there will be no signal shutdown for today’s Fiesta Señor and Sinulog Festival.

This statement contradicts information posted online, which Garcia labeled as "fake news" on his official Facebook page.

Garcia emphasized that contrary to the circulating fake news, there will be no signal jam during the Fiesta Señor and Sinulog Festival.

“Sukwahi sa mga nikatap nga fake news sa online, walay mahitabong signal jam inig ugma (Jan 19),” Garcia said.

Additionally, the Cebu City government is providing free public Wi-Fi along the Fuente Osmeña Rotunda during the Sinulog grand parade 2025.

The infographics that caused the confusion were originally posted by a radio station back in January 2020.

Mayor Garcia also mentioned that there is no confirmation of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. or First Lady Lisa Marcos attending the event today.

However, President Marcos will be sending a representative, Secretary Antonio Lagdameo, who is expected to be at the Cebu City Sports Center this morning.

“Nagpada gyud siya sa iyang representante, in the person of our Special Assistant to the President, si Secretary Lagdameo, who will be gracing our Sinulog mardi gra grand parade, Sunday morning. Magkita mi didto and of course I will send my best, ipaabot ngadto sa Presidente nga malampuson gyud ug nindot kaayoa atong celebration sa Piyesta Senyor activities and festivities,” Garcia said.

Lagdameo will be attending the Sinulog and conveying the President's best wishes for a successful celebration.

In addition to Lagdameo, other national officials, senators, and candidates running for various positions are expected to attend the event today.  — (FREEMAN)