Cebu gets 13T force multipliers on Sinulog

At least 10,000 habal-habal drivers yesterday committed to be the law enforcers’ force multipliers in the upcoming Sinulog celebration.

Cebu City Executive Assistant Arnel Tancinco said the habal-habal drivers expressed their willingness to aid the Philippine National Police in terms of securing the city during the Sinulog.

He said it is better to utilize these drivers who keep on roaming around the city who can easily detect anyone or anything suspicious in the surroundings.

“Nakita man gud nato nga ang habal-habal drivers kay naa sa grass roots level. They can be utilized effectively sa information gathering and reporting,” Tancinco said.

In a separate interview, Councilor David Tumulak, Sinulog Executive Committee chair, told The FREEMAN that the aid of the habal-habal drivers in security matters is needed to ensure that the celebration is orderly and peaceful.

Meanwhile, Tumulak urges the public to report before the Office of the Mayor if the habal-habal drivers charged them excessively.

Mayor Tomas Osmeña, in a press conference, said he is leaving all Sinulog matters to Tumulak.

“He’s in direct command. He doesn’t have to pass anything to me. He can make decision on the spot. And make any mistakes, I will accept it. That is called delegation of authority,” he said.

Osmeña then is hopeful that this year’s Sinulog would be more peaceful and orderly compared to the previous years.

“So, we are tightening up the Sinulog from the standpoint that it will be toned down…will end early, hopefully. There will be little or no drinking, hopefully. Dili na mawala ba,” he said.

Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) Director Joel Doria said that he already directed all his station chiefs to strictly implement the 300-meter radius party and liquor ban during the Sinulog. He also said that so far, there is still no recommendation for signal jamming since there are no direct threats in regards to Sinulog.

On the other hand, Doria encouraged the public not to bring unnecessary gadgets during the Sinulog to avoid attracting criminals.

Doria also advised those who would be bringing kids with them to decide a pre-determined place where to meet up in case they will lose each other.