The captain of Barangay Pasil has stated that no complaints have been received regarding the large tarpaulins installed on the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX). This comes amid a massive cleanup operation along the coastline in conjunction with the ASEAN Summit 2026.
In an interview on Friday, May 8, 2026, Captain Francisco de Gracia Jr. said no formal complaints about the tarpaulins had reached him, but acknowledged that many residents disapproved because they obstruct the view. "I don't know what tarpaulin you are referring to... as far as I know, I have not received any complaints," he said. The captain added that criticisms might only come from a few critics.
This statement came after criticisms that Barangay Pasil was being hidden or covered up so as not to be seen by ASEAN delegates, especially those passing through CCLEX. The installation of tarpaulins and the urgent cleanup drew public attention due to the waste situation and the state of the coastline in the area.
However, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival clarified that the tarpaulins on CCLEX were not intended to hide Barangay Pasil. According to the mayor, the purpose was to welcome delegates and showcase Cebu's pride. "This is not intended to hide anything. It carries messages of welcome to delegates and introduces Cebu City," Archival explained.
The mayor also confirmed that the cleanup in Pasil is ongoing in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), as it is one of the priority areas for environmental improvement before the summit.
According to Gracia, the cleanup drive in Pasil is expected to last at least two more weeks because there is still a large volume of waste that needs to be cleared from the coastline. Even after the summit ends, the operation may continue depending on the remaining waste. Gracia confirmed that their Barangay Environmental Officers (BEOs) have started issuing citation tickets to residents caught illegally dumping trash. Most of those caught are residents, not market vendors.
The ongoing cleanup is part of Cebu's broader support for the ASEAN Summit 2026, which was held from May 7 to 8. The event brought thousands of foreign delegates and media personnel.
