Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has revealed that the local government is actively considering a unique use for the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) area during the upcoming Sinulog festival in January 2026. The plan involves designating a section of the CBRT as an official zone for tattoo artists to practice their craft, blending modern body art with the city's centuries-old religious celebration.
Permits and Coordination are Mandatory
Mayor Archival emphasized that while the city is open to this creative idea, it will not be a free-for-all. All participating tattoo artists will be required to secure the necessary permits from the city government. This step is crucial to maintain order and, most importantly, ensure public safety throughout the festival's crowded events.
The mayor also clarified a significant procedural hurdle. Official coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is still needed because the CBRT area has not yet been formally turned over to the City of Cebu. This means the national agency's approval is essential before any city-led activities can proceed on the site.
Strict Conditions to Protect the New Infrastructure
To prevent damage to the brand-new CBRT facilities, the city plans to impose strict operational conditions on any approved tattoo activity. A primary concern is preventing ink stains on public property.
Tattoo artists will be obligated to use protective cloth or coverings over their work areas to shield the infrastructure from any accidental spills or splatters. This measure aims to preserve the cleanliness and integrity of the transit system's assets.
Furthermore, the city will enforce clear boundaries. The CBRT area will not be converted into a pedestrian pathway during major religious activities, especially the solemn procession. Pedestrians will be directed to use the sidewalks, as bollards will block entry into restricted sections. Additional security personnel will be deployed to guard facilities and prevent people from climbing on structures like the distinctive foglia leaf designs.
Balancing Creativity with Regulation
The potential move highlights the city administration's desire to harness public creativity and provide unique experiences in communal spaces during festivals. Mayor Archival's vision is to allow artistic expression but within a framework of proper regulation. The goal is to enhance the festive atmosphere without compromising the safety, smooth flow, and solemnity of different aspects of the Sinulog celebration.
This initiative, if finalized after DOTr coordination, would represent an innovative fusion of cultural tradition, contemporary art, and urban infrastructure management. It underscores the local government's effort to create regulated yet vibrant public engagements during one of the country's largest and most famous festivals.
