Zafra wants Sinulog security preparations to start early

CEBU, Philippines —  Cebu City Councilor Philip Zafra wants safety and security preparations for the upcoming Sinulog to start early.

Zafra said security mapping has to start ahead of time considering that next year's venue will be different from the past Sinulogs and the expected presence of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

Earlier, Mayor Michael Rama had announced that the upcoming Sinulog will be held at the South Road Property (SRP).

Zafra, chairman of the peace and order committee of the City Council, agreed with Rama’s decision to have the next Sinulog at the SRP.

 "Dako kaayo ang SRP ug haom ra gyud kaayo nga dinhi pagahimoon ang Sinulog. Atoa gyud nga ipaneguro nga mahimong malinawon ang kalihokan," said Zafra.

The Sinulog, said to be the mother of all festivals in the country, originally started its route at the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino then from Capitol to Fort San Pedro, recalls long-time Sinulog organizer Ricky Ballesteros.

It was later transferred to the old Lahug airport, now IT Park in Apas, then near White Gold House at the North Reclamation Area and then at the Cebu Business Park before it finally settled at the Cebu City Sports Center for a long time.

With Rama wanting a grand comeback of the Sinulog after being interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the mayor wanted a much bigger place that is safer for both the spectators and performers.

Still half a year from now, Rama had already invited the president to attend the event. With the President’s attendance being assumed, Zafra said early preparations are necessary.

Rama also expressed his desire to have stalls around the venue where food, goods, and other merchandise can be sold.

Aside from the venue itself, Zafra also anticipates a heavy influx of tourists in next year’s Sinulog.

Zafra and the representatives from the Cebu City Police Office have already started meeting with the different stakeholders. — Sanden Anadia, FPL (FREEMAN)