Final checks are underway as Cebu officials declared readiness for the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit, with security, traffic, and venue preparations largely in place ahead of the high-level gathering on May 7 and 8.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., as chair of this year’s ASEAN, will host fellow leaders from 10 member-states during the summit.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro said the province is prepared to receive heads of state and their delegations.
“We in Cebu, we are ready,” Baricuatro said, noting that security preparations are already “80-percent complete,” with hospitals placed on “code blue” alert and emergency response systems heightened for the duration of the event.
She added that rehearsals and dry runs will be conducted before the arrival of delegates.
Summit activities will be concentrated in Lapu-Lapu City, particularly at the Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown, where key meetings are scheduled.
Nagiel Bañacia, head of the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said preparations have been ongoing since December, including public information drives and traffic planning.
He said road closures will be limited to convoy movements and will be reopened immediately after, while the two main bridges linking the island to mainland Cebu will remain open.
“We understand that daily life must continue even as we host this summit,” Bañacia said, adding that 70 to 90 percent of emergency preparedness measures are already in place.
Authorities have identified priority routes from the airport to hotels and resorts where delegates will stay.
In Cebu City, Mayor Nestor Archival said traffic management plans are ready, with no full-day road closures expected.
“So far, there will be no major road closures, but we are ready if adjustments are needed,” Archival said, citing coordination with police and traffic management units.
Delegates traveling to the city are expected to pass through the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.
In Mandaue City, Mayor Thadeo Ouano Jr. reported ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including road asphalting, improved street lighting, and solar installations along key routes. Barangays have also been mobilized for cleanup and repainting efforts.
Ouano said traffic flow will remain uninterrupted, with increased security visibility and continuous monitoring during the summit.
The Department of Public Works and Highways said national road preparations have been completed and urged the public to help maintain cleanliness during the event.
Baricuatro called the summit a significant opportunity for Cebu and urged residents to extend hospitality to visiting delegates.
“This is a momentous event. Cebu is featured among all the 82 provinces. Cebu has been chosen. That alone will inspire us to do our best, and let’s be hospitable to our guests. If there are delegates, give them a smile. Give them the warmest Cebuano welcome,” she said.
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