The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) will open the viewing decks of Piers 1 to 5 for devotees attending the fluvial procession on January 17, 2026.
Officials said there will be no fixed attendance limit as long as safety protocols are observed.
CPA Ground Commander Inspector Jomar Lumapay said the move aims to accommodate devotees wishing to witness the seaborne procession of the Santo Niño, a major highlight of the annual Fiesta Señor.
“All access points will be subject to security measures, including mandatory inspections and K9 screening,” Lumapay said.
“Sharp objects are prohibited, and all devotees must follow the instructions of security personnel at all times.”
While the CPA is not setting a strict cap, entry will be regulated based on crowd density and safety.
“There is no cap as long as the situation remains safe. Once capacity is reached, access will be controlled to prevent overcrowding,” Lumapay said.
The fluvial procession, held ahead of the solemn foot procession on the eve of Fiesta Señor, traditionally draws thousands of devotees to coastal areas and port facilities in Cebu City.
Participation has grown in recent years; during the 2025 Fiesta Señor, authorities allowed up to 355 vessels across the Mactan Channel, exceeding the 329 initially registered and the 247 vessels in 2024.
Cebu City is bracing for an estimated four to five million visitors for the Fiesta Señor and Sinulog Grand Parade on Sunday, January 18, 2026, according to Mayor Nestor Archival, who assured that public safety preparations are in place.
He also confirmed there will be no signal shutdown during the parade to maintain uninterrupted communication for emergency response and inter-agency coordination.
Port and Church officials said CPA personnel will be deployed across the viewing decks and access points to maintain order and respond promptly to safety concerns during the early morning fluvial procession, part of the weeklong religious activities culminating in the Fiesta Señor. (LLP)
Image/MyCebu PhotoBlog
