The Province of Cebu has declared full readiness to host the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Leaders’ Summit, with comprehensive preparations for security, traffic management, and venue operations now in place ahead of the high-level gathering scheduled for May 7–8.
As Chair of ASEAN this year, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will convene with fellow heads of state from the bloc’s 10 member countries for the summit, a key regional platform for dialogue and cooperation.
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro affirmed the province’s preparedness during a recent ASEAN press briefing.
“We in Cebu, we are ready,” Baricuatro said, noting that security measures are approximately 80 percent complete. Enhanced emergency response systems have been activated, with hospitals placed on “code blue” alert to ensure rapid medical assistance if needed. Final rehearsals and simulation exercises are scheduled prior to the arrival of official delegations.
Summit activities will be centered in Lapu-Lapu City, particularly at the newly constructed Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown. Delegates are expected to be accommodated primarily within the city’s resort areas.
Nagiel Bañacia, head of the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, reported that preparations have been underway since December. These include extensive public information campaigns and detailed traffic management planning.
Road closures will be limited to official convoy movements and will be promptly lifted thereafter. Both major bridges connecting Lapu-Lapu City to mainland Cebu will remain open throughout the summit to minimize disruption to daily activities.
“We understand that daily life must continue even as we host this summit,” Bañacia emphasized, adding that 70 to 90 percent of emergency preparedness measures are already in place.
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival also confirmed that traffic management plans have been finalized, with no full-day road closures anticipated. Coordination efforts with law enforcement and traffic authorities are ongoing to ensure smooth mobility. Delegates traveling to Cebu City are expected to use the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.
In neighboring Mandaue City, Mayor Thadeo Ouano Jr. highlighted ongoing infrastructure improvements, including road resurfacing, upgraded street lighting, and solar installations along major routes. Community-level initiatives such as clean-up drives and repainting efforts have also been mobilized.
Traffic flow in Mandaue City is expected to remain uninterrupted, supported by heightened security presence and continuous monitoring.
Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways reported that all national road preparations have been completed. The agency also encouraged the public to help maintain cleanliness and proper waste disposal throughout the event.
Governor Baricuatro expressed appreciation for the opportunity to host the summit and called on residents to extend Cebu’s renowned hospitality to international guests.
“This is a momentous event. Cebu has been chosen among 82 provinces, and that inspires us to do our best. Let us warmly welcome our guests and show them the true Cebuano spirit,” she said.
The 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit is expected to bring together regional leaders to discuss key issues and strengthen cooperation across Southeast Asia.
