Cebu traffic, road, and security updates for ASEAN 2026 events

CEBU, Philippines – Major cities in Cebu are intensifying security, traffic, and infrastructure preparations for the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM) and Tourism Forum (ATF) from January 25 to 30, aiming to make a strong first impression before hosting the 48th ASEAN Summit later in 2026.

Here’s a rundown of the security measures, traffic advisories, and city-level preparations announced so far.

Security measures

Around 9,000 police personnel will be deployed for the first set of meetings and events, supported by the military, coast guard, fire services, and intelligence agencies. While no credible threats have been identified so far, security forces have given assurances that they remain on heightened alert.

A region-wide gun ban, along with the suspension of permits to carry or transport firearms and explosives, has been enforced across Central Visayas. Originally implemented a week before the Sinulog Festival in select areas, the ban has been expanded in terms of coverage, and has been extended until January 31 for the ASEAN forum.

Traffic and road management

Across Cebu, declogging and waterway cleaning are underway, with local government units coordinating closely with emergency and disaster response teams to ensure safety and uninterrupted traffic throughout the ASEAN meetings.

As of this writing, the respective city transportation offices are unable to provide full traffic management plans, but have given assurances that traffic advisories and road closure updates will be posted through official government channels closer to the event.

We will also update this article with new traffic advisories and road closure information for each city as they become available.

LAPU-LAPU CITY

In Lapu-Lapu City, authorities have enforced traffic regulations along Punta Engaño, a major tourism corridor and key access route for delegates and visitors. 

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cynthia King-Chan has also ordered the towing and strict removal of illegally parked vehicles in the area.

CEBU CITY

Cebu City has created a task force to oversee traffic management and venue readiness for ATF-related events.

MANDAUE CITY

Mandaue City is improving key access roads, including UN Avenue and Ouano Avenue, through streetlight upgrades and clearing obstructions to improve visibility and safety, particularly at night. 

Infrastructure and sanitation

The Mactan Shrine, a historical landmark featuring the Lapu-Lapu Monument, is closed from January 20 to 31 to carry out necessary infrastructure upgrades for the ATF.

Meanwhile, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has rolled out the ASEAN Summit Clean-Up Drive, an initiative to maintain city sanitation and restore cultural and heritage sites in preparation for the ASEAN meetings. The mayor says this will be a sustained effort beyond the duration of the event. 

The AMM and ATF are the first major ASEAN events that the Philippines is hosting as chair. Aside from the meetings, delegates will also be visiting cultural and heritage sites across Cebu, underscoring the need for comprehensive city preparations. – Rappler.com