The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is ramping up preparations for heavy maritime traffic expected during the upcoming seaborne procession in Cebu on January 17, 2026. With vessel registrations projected to surge in the coming days, authorities are implementing strict safety and crowd control measures following a critical dry run.
Dry Run Yields Positive Results for Coordination
PCG Cebu commander, Captain Jerome Lozada, reported that an initial dry run conducted to test logistics, timing, and inter-agency coordination was successful. The exercise, which lasted approximately one hour and 30 minutes, focused on ensuring vessels could maintain an orderly formation while traveling at an average speed of five knots.
Lozada emphasized that timing is crucial, especially in coordinating movements with Naval Forces Central as the procession sets off towards its destination at Pier 1. The dry run confirmed that the planned vessel positioning and sequencing would allow for a safe and synchronized event.
Registrations Expected to Match or Exceed 350 Vessels
As of the latest update, 180 vessels have officially registered to join the religious maritime event. However, the PCG anticipates this number will climb significantly in the week leading up to the procession.
"We are expecting to reach the same number this year, hopefully not exceeding too much, because 350-plus is already a lot," stated Capt. Lozada. He added, "But next week, the registrations will really pick up." The figure refers to the total participation recorded in the previous year's event.
Massive Deployment for Safety and Control
To manage the anticipated volume of sea traffic, the PCG, in partnership with the Philippine Navy and other agencies, will deploy a significant force. Approximately 20 vessels will act as marshals and safety monitors along the designated route.
On the ground and across the waters, an estimated 500 to 600 personnel will be mobilized to oversee operations and enforce safety protocols. Strict controls will be enforced, with PCG personnel beginning their deployment as early as the evening of January 16 to prevent unregistered vessels from entering the procession route.
"All in all, the dry run shows that our teams are ready," Capt. Lozada concluded. "We are confident that with proper coordination and planning, the procession will proceed safely and successfully."
