Cebu Mayor Stands Firm on Tarpaulin Use Amid ASEAN Forum Garbage Controversy
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has publicly defended the deployment of ASEAN-themed tarpaulins along the South Road Properties, including areas adjacent to Barangay Pasil. This decision comes in response to mounting criticism that the covers are strategically placed to conceal accumulated garbage from international delegates attending the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, held in Cebu from January 28 to 30.
A Long-Standing Waste Issue
The mayor emphasized that the targeted area, under the jurisdiction of the Department of Public Works and Highways, has been plagued by trash accumulation for over a quarter of a century. Archival argued that resolving such a deep-rooted problem is not feasible within a few days, despite the presence of four backhoes operating daily at the site. He stated, "What do they want, should we remove it and show everything? My decision is to clean." The mayor called for patience, highlighting the massive scale of waste that cannot be addressed overnight.
Positive Impressions from International Visitors
Contrary to local complaints, Mayor Archival reported receiving favorable feedback from visiting ASEAN tourism ministers, who noted the city's apparent cleanliness. He remarked, "If you really look at the city, it is clean. But what's important is that we sustain it." While he clarified that he did not personally order the tarpaulin installation, he supports their temporary use to manage the area's appearance during the high-profile event.
Addressing Barangay Pasil's Plight
In response to concerns that Barangay Pasil is being unfairly targeted, the mayor explained that the community often suffers the most from the city's waste issues. Much of the trash originates upstream and settles in low-lying areas like Pasil, leading to environmental and health challenges. Archival noted, "Pasil has been there for 25 years. They are not the only source of the garbage. In fact, they are the ones suffering the most, breathing the foul air and experiencing flooding."
Call for Community Cooperation
Mayor Archival urged residents to move beyond complaints and actively participate in cleanup efforts, acknowledging the difficulties in penalizing illegal dumping without direct evidence. He compared Cebu's situation to Japan's 30-year journey toward cleanliness, stressing that his administration, in office for about 200 days, is committed to long-term solutions through education and habit change. The mayor concluded by emphasizing that many residents near waterways are in "survival mode," prioritizing basic needs over environmental concerns, and called for collective responsibility to achieve a cleaner Cebu.
