In preparation for the massive influx of devotees and tourists for the Sinulog Festival, Cebu City officials have coordinated with Governor Pamela Baricuatro for a significant temporary transportation change. The Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT) will be temporarily closed on January 18, 2026, as part of a comprehensive traffic and transport management plan for the annual religious and cultural celebration.
Traffic Decongestion and Relocation Plan
Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak, who is part of the Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) executive committee, explained that the move aims to reduce congestion on major roads. It will also free up space for designated parking for officials and emergency vehicles near the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC), the festival's main hub.
Under the approved plan, the city has requested the governor's permission to relocate all southbound bus operations to the SRP El Pardo/Industrial Road area. This rerouting will be in effect starting at 3:00 AM on January 18 and will last until the conclusion of the Sinulog activities. Buses from the southern parts of Cebu will continue their journeys but will use El Pardo as their temporary terminal for parking and passenger pick-up and drop-off.
Strict Access and Public Transport Alternatives
Councilor Tumulak clarified that access to the Cebu City Sports Center will be highly restricted. Only ambulances, fire trucks, VVIPs, and key city officials like the Mayor and Vice Mayor will be allowed entry. Mayors and officials from other towns and cities are expected to park at the South Bus Terminal once it is cleared of buses.
To assist the public, a dedicated shuttle service will be deployed. A minimum of 27 MyBus units will ferry passengers from designated pickup points to key festival locations. The operation of these shuttle buses will begin at 5:00 AM on January 18.
Detailed Routes for Devotees
The city has outlined specific routes to streamline movement:
- From the South: Private vehicles can only go as far as El Pardo. From there, passengers must transfer to a MyBus shuttle. The shuttle will drop passengers near the National Museum before they proceed to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
- From the North: Private vehicles are limited to SM City Cebu. Passengers will then transfer to a MyBus shuttle heading directly to the Basilica.
- Northbound bus operations will remain in their usual routes and terminal.
Tumulak strongly encouraged devotees bringing private vehicles to park at malls outside the city center to avoid adding to the downtown traffic gridlock. Parking around the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño is strictly prohibited to ensure clear pathways for ambulances and emergency responders.
This coordinated effort between the Cebu City government and the Provincial Capitol highlights the proactive measures being taken to ensure the safety, convenience, and solemnity of the Sinulog 2026 festivities for all participants.
