CEBU CITY — On January 18, the day of the 461st feast of Santo Niño de Cebu, the local government of Cebu City anticipates between 4 and 5 million tourists for the Sinulog Festival.

In an interview on Monday, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival stated, “about 4 to 5 million during the Sinulog mardi gras.”

Archival continued in Cebuano, “Our city government is here so when you reach Cebu, you will be safe and peaceful,”

Three of the 40 dancing contingents that the city has scheduled are guest performers.

To secure Cebu City for the festivities, about 7,000 members of the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, Bureau of Fire Protection, and other organizations were sent in.

The feast will take place on Sunday, January 18, but activities like the Novena Masses’ opening salvo will start on Thursday, January 8.

Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, Director of the Police Regional Office Central Visayas, stated, “We are giving emphasis sa highest degree of peace, security and safety. Dapat lesser ang crime than last year.“

The police showcased their new mobile cars, handheld radios, megaphones, and other equipment in addition to their manpower. Additionally, all of Metro Cebu’s CCTV cameras are monitored in real time by a new mobile command center.

INVITED GUESTS

According to Archival, important national figures are anticipated to arrive.

Archival continued, “We are sending a letter to the President, the Vice President, the Head of Congress and the Senate, as well as the Head of the Mayor’s League.”

They are yet to receive an initial confirmation from these visitors, though.

“Our celebration should still be vibrant. Based on the theme, we are united and nobody should get left behind,” said Rev. Fr. Jules Almerez is the Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño’s media liaison.

With over a year of preparations ahead, Cebu officials said improvements in digital ticketing, information dissemination, and tourist assistance centers are being considered to enhance the overall experience for attendees.

As the city prepares for the massive turnout, authorities are encouraging visitors to plan ahead and follow official advisories to ensure a safe, meaningful, and memorable Sinulog 2026.

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