Road closures today for Sinulog launch

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) is implementing several road closures today, January 10, as part of the official launch of Sinulog 202.

The road closures aim to manage traffic for the afternoon activities, including a parade and the formal opening ceremony.

According to CCTO, full road closures will be implemented on Osmeña Blvd. (from the corner of M.J. Cuenco Ave. to D. Jakosalem St.) and Legazpi St. (from the corner of M.J. Cuenco Ave. to P. Burgos St.).

On the other hand, partial road closures will be implemented on Osmeña Blvd. (from D. Jakosalem St. to R. Landon St.) and the streets of D. Jakosalem, Legazpi, F. Gonzales, Plaridel, Manalili, Colon, Sanciangko, N. Bacalso Ave., P. Del Rosario, and R. Landon.

Motorists coming from S. Osmeña Jr. Blvd. or M.J. Cuenco Ave. are advised to use alternate routes, such as V. Gullas St., to avoid delays.

The counterflow lane going northbound on the Cebu South Coastal Road (CSCR) is also suspended from January 10 to 19, 2025, due to the increased volume of vehicles heading south for novena Masses at the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu.

Traffic enforcers and directional signs are in place to assist motorists. Drivers are advised to plan their trips ahead and use alternative routes to minimize inconvenience.

Sinulog launch activities

The formal Sinulog 2025 launch will take place this afternoon at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) after a 2:00 PM Mass at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Cebu City Mayor Raymond Garcia is expected to officially declare the event open during the Mass.

A parade will follow, featuring city officials, representatives from colleges and universities, and Miss Cebu 2025 finalists. A total of 15 schools will showcase their performances in a Sinulog street dancing preview, according to Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) Executive Director Jojo Labella.

SFI chairman and former mayor Michael Rama is also expected to attend the launch. Attendance is free, and the public is encouraged to witness the festivities. —/FPL (FREEMAN)