Cebu ready to host 48th ASEAN Summit, local officials say

Cebu is ready to host the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Leaders’ Summit in May, with local officials assuring that security, traffic, and venue arrangements are already in place.

As the host of the 2026 ASEAN summit, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will join leaders from 10 other member states, from May 7 and 8.

Speaking at an ASEAN press briefing, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro expressed confidence in the province’s readiness to host the high-level gathering. “We in Cebu, we are ready,” Baricuatro reassured.

Baricuatro said security preparations are about 80 percent complete, with strengthened emergency response systems and hospitals placed on “code blue” alert throughout the event. She added that rehearsals and dry runs will be conducted ahead of the arrival of heads of state and their delegations.

“This is a momentous event. Cebu is featured among all the 82 provinces. Cebu has been chosen. That alone will inspire us to do our best, and let’s be hospitable to our guests. If there are delegates, give them a smile. Give them the warmest Cebuano welcome,” she said.

Most summit activities will be held in Lapu-Lapu City, particularly at the newly built Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown, where most of the delegates are expected to be concentrated at.

Nagiel Bañacia, head of the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said preparations have been ongoing since December, including public information drives and traffic planning.

“We understand that daily life must continue even as we host this summit,” he said, noting that 70 to 90 percent of emergency preparedness measures are already in place.

Bañacia explained that road closures will only occur during convoy movements and will be lifted immediately after, while the two major bridges linking Lapu-Lapu to mainland Cebu will remain open.

Authorities have also mapped out key routes from the airport to Mactan resorts, where most delegates will be staying. In Cebu City, Mayor Nestor Archival said traffic management plans are ready, with no full-day road closures anticipated.

“So far, there will be no major road closures, but we are ready if adjustments are needed,” he said, citing coordination with police and traffic authorities. Delegates heading to Cebu City are expected to pass through the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.

Meanwhile, Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Ouano Jr. reported that infrastructure improvements are ongoing, including road asphalting, street lighting upgrading, and solar installations along key routes. Barangay personnel have also been mobilized for clean-up and repainting efforts.

Ouano said traffic flow is expected to remain smooth, supported by heightened security presence and continuous monitoring.

The Department of Public Works and Highways said national road preparations have been completed and urged the public to maintain cleanliness during the summit.