Barangay Pasil Captain Francisco de Gracia Jr. stated on Friday, May 8, 2026, that he has not received any formal complaints regarding the tarpaulins installed along the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) prior to the recently concluded 48th Asean Summit and related meetings held in Cebu. De Gracia made this statement in response to social media criticisms alleging that Barangay Pasil was being concealed from the view of Asean delegates, particularly along the CCLEX, where the tarpaulins and ongoing clean-up efforts have attracted public attention.
“As far as I know, I haven’t received any complaints,” he said in an interview on Friday, adding that criticisms may be coming only from “some critics.”
De Gracia explained that the clean-up drive in Pasil is expected to continue for at least two more weeks, as significant waste still needs to be removed from the coastal area. He noted that while the initial phase of the clean-up was anticipated to conclude earlier, operations will likely extend beyond the Asean summit depending on the remaining waste issues. The effort is being jointly carried out by Barangay Pasil and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
De Gracia also mentioned that barangay environmental officers have issued citation tickets to residents caught improperly disposing of waste along the coastal area.
Warm Welcome
At City Hall, Mayor Nestor Archival clarified that the tarpaulins are intended to welcome Asean delegates rather than hide the coastal community. “These are not meant to hide anything. They will carry messages welcoming delegates and introducing Cebu City,” Archival said. He added that the installations are part of broader preparations for the international event, which brought thousands of foreign delegates and international media members to the province.
Archival stated that the initiative aims to improve cleanliness, safety, and visual presentation along key routes, including coastal barangays visible from major infrastructure such as the CCLEX. He also confirmed that clean-up operations in Pasil are being conducted in coordination with the DPWH, as the area remains a priority site for environmental improvement ahead of the summit. The Asean Summit was held in Cebu from Wednesday, May 6, to May 8.
