Governor Pamela Baricuatro on Wednesday credited public cooperation for the smooth start of Cebu’s hosting of high-level Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings, noting orderly roads and minimal disruption across key areas.
Baricuatro said early operations have gone as planned as security and traffic measures rolled out with the arrival of foreign delegates.
“So far, so good. The roads are quiet,” she said.
“Atoa mga ka-igsuonan no naminaw nato nya limpyo atoang mga dalan karon nya walay traffic, thank you kayo sa tanan na nituman sa atong panawagan,” she added.
Security personnel and traffic teams have been deployed across Metro Cebu as part of preparations for the regional summit, with rerouting and access controls in place in selected areas.
Baricuatro said residents’ cooperation helped maintain order during the opening days of ASEAN activities, following earlier appeals for discipline and patience.
She earlier described Cebu’s hosting as a major opportunity to showcase the province on the international stage.
“This is a golden opportunity to shine Cebu’s hospitality, culture, and organizational excellence on the world stage,” she said.
Baricuatro also urged residents to actively support the event by maintaining cleanliness and assisting visitors.
She encouraged Cebuanos to welcome delegates warmly and keep public spaces orderly as foreign leaders and guests move across the province.
The governor said the summit could strengthen Cebu’s long-term prospects in tourism, trade, and investment.
“Of course, it’s about trade and tourism. So mao gyud na atoa gilantaw,” she said.
“Mao na nangamuyo jud kos mga Cebuano to show our best in hospitality as far as hospitality is concerned. It’s not enough that we have ASEAN here. It’s important na mubalik sila,” she added.
“Ganahan sila mubalik ug mu-invest diri sa Cebu,” she said.
Baricuatro also reminded the public to expect continued traffic adjustments and security protocols as summit activities continue.
She said the temporary inconveniences are necessary to ensure a safe and efficient international event.
“Plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and follow official advisories,” she earlier said.
She added that disciplined public behavior helps ensure smooth operations throughout the summit period.
“Demonstrate calm, courteous behavior… understand that these measures support a safer, smoother, and more efficient event for everyone,” she said.
Baricuatro said the province expects long-term benefits from hosting ASEAN, particularly in boosting Cebu’s global profile.
“Long-term impacts of our collective efforts will be felt in Cebu’s trade and tourism, continuing to elevate our economy and prestige,” she said.
She called on Cebuanos to maintain unity as the province hosts one of the region’s largest diplomatic events.
“Let us move forward with unity, pride, and dedication,” she said. (LLP)
Photo courtesy of Cebu Province
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