Cebu Mayor Prioritizes City Safety Over International Conference
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has made the decisive choice to cancel his scheduled trip to Yokohama, Japan, putting the safety of his constituents first. This action comes directly from the recommendations of the Cebu City Disaster Council and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as Tropical Depression “Verbena” poses a potential threat to the city.
Missed Opportunity for a Smarter Cebu
Mayor Archival was slated to depart on the night of Monday, November 24, 2025, to participate in the Smart Cities Conference. This international gathering serves as a crucial platform for global leaders to exchange ideas on technology, urban mobility, and building climate resilience. The mayor emphasized that the event offered valuable insights that would have significantly advanced his administration's goal of creating a Sustainable, Smart, and Inclusive Cebu City.
Standing with Cebu in the Face of the Storm
Despite the importance of the conference, Mayor Archival stated that the developing weather situation demands his leadership at home. “At a time like this, I need to be here -- to stand with our teams, monitor the situation closely, and ensure we are fully prepared for any possible impact on our communities,” Archival affirmed. He is now directly overseeing the city's disaster preparedness efforts as Cebu braces for heavy rains. The mayor has issued a strong call to action for all residents, urging them to:
- Stay informed through official government advisories.
- Prepare essential supplies, including food, water, and medicine.
- Check on the safety of family members and neighbors, especially the vulnerable.
Concluding his statement with a message of solidarity, Mayor Archival added, “We face this together. I am here with you, Cebu.” His presence aims to reassure the public and coordinate an effective response to whatever challenges Tropical Depression Verbena may bring.
