Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has unveiled a novel plan to transform part of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) area into a designated creative hub for tattoo artists during the upcoming Sinulog Festival. This initiative aims to add a unique, cultural layer to the city's grandest celebration while implementing strict regulations.
A Creative Hub with Strict Regulations
Mayor Archival confirmed the proposal is currently "on the table" as city officials work on the framework to define and regulate the space. The primary goal is to ensure public safety and maintain order throughout the festivities. Only licensed tattoo artists will be permitted to operate within the designated CBRT zone. Vendors selling food, drinks, or merchandise will be explicitly prohibited to preserve the area's cleanliness and prevent congestion.
Under the proposed guidelines, all participating artists must secure the necessary permits from the city. A key condition being considered is the mandatory use of protective cloths or coverings in work areas to prevent ink spills and stains on the new public infrastructure. This rule highlights the city's intent to balance creative expression with civic responsibility.
Pending Coordination and Access Changes
However, the plan's execution hinges on crucial coordination with the national Department of Transportation (DOTr). Archival clarified that the CBRT area has not been formally turned over to the City Government. "We are already communicating with the DOTr. I even tried to have the area closed; but so far, we have not received a response," the mayor stated, acknowledging this procedural hurdle.
In a related development, festival organizers announced that the CBRT area will not serve as a public passageway during key Sinulog activities. This specifically applies to the grand Santo Niño de Cebu procession on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Pedestrians will be rerouted along the sides as bollards block entry to the restricted sections. This marks a change from earlier events, like the "Penitential Walk with Jesus" on January 8 and the Sinulog opening salvo on January 9, when the area was open for foot traffic.
Ensuring Safety and Festival Integrity
To safeguard both festival installations and public property, the Cebu City Government will deploy additional security personnel in the CBRT vicinity. Their duties will include preventing people from climbing on decorative structures like the foglia leaves and ensuring the overall security of Sinulog setups.
Mayor Archival emphasized that while the city encourages innovative uses of public spaces during Sinulog, strict regulations and inter-agency cooperation are non-negotiable to maintain a safe and orderly environment for all. The Sinulog Festival, Cebu's premier cultural and religious event, is scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026. This proposal for a tattoo artist zone represents a modern twist on the traditional celebration, pending necessary approvals.
