Concert, party in SRP–Rama

STREET and mall parties will be prohibited in Cebu City on Jan. 19, the day of the Sinulog Grand Parade, in order to regulate the number of revelers and prevent any untoward incidents.

Instead, a “big party” and a free concert will be held at the grounds of the South Road Properties starting at 5 p.m. and ending at 2 a.m., Monday, Sinulog Foundation Inc. Executive Director Ricky Balesteros said.

“We’re going to put up a big party at SRP, para ang mga tawo dili na mag-concentrate sa Fuente tanan (so the people won’t be concentrated at the Fuente Osmeña area),” Ballesteros said.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama said he also asked the city’s quick response team to prepare for the expected “people surge” for the annual Sinulog celebration.

He said activities should be held in open spaces like the Plaza Independencia.

Rama said the Cebu City government should be strict in regulating street parties and mall discos.

“This might create an overflow into the road. This might create police and traffic problem,” he said.

Rama said Sinulog Foundation members led by Anna Conejero requested to prohibit street and mall parties to disperse the revelers especially near the Fuente Osmeña rotunda where the parade will pass through.

Entertainment will start at 5 p.m. but the concert featuring party bands from Cebu and Manila will start at 12 midnight up to 2 a.m. the following day.

Food stalls will be present but liquor will not be sold. Chief of Reporters Doris C. Bongcac and Correspondent Chito Aragon