Capitol mass about to start, motorists told to avoid uptownroads

At least 15, 000 monoblock chairs are lined up in portions of Osmena Boulevard fronting the Capitol building while steel barriers have been set up on nearby roads roads to prevent vehicles entry into the area. (CDN PHOTO/NESTLE L. SEMILLA)

Roads leading to the Cebu Provincial Capitol were closed as early as 1 a.m. on Friday to give way to preparations for the 4 p.m.

Mass and the procession that will follow to Plaza Independencia.

At least 15, 000 monoblock chairs are lined up in portions of Osmena Boulevard fronting the Capitol building while steel barriers have been set up on nearby roads roads to prevent vehicles entry into the area.

Councilor Dave Tumulak is asking motorists to use diversion roads to avoid getting stuck in the slow moving uptown Cebu City traffic.

Vehicles coming from the south district heading to the northern part of the city are advised to use the Kalanusan Road that connects to Modesta Gaisano Street and Salinas Drive in barangay Lahug.

Cebu Provincial Administrator Ramil Abing said the preparations started as early 8 a.m.

Capitol personnel set up monoblock chairs in front of the Capitol.

The Capitol Social Hall and Dignitaries Hall located on the building’s second floor have been converted into a holding area for bishops who will be attending the afternoon Mass, Abing added.

Chief Supt. Manuel Gaerlan, head of the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas, said about 180 policemen will be deployed to secure the participants.

Tumulak said ambulances and firetrucks are stationed at the capitol area and along the procession route to respond to emergency situations.

Abing said the Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and the Provincial Health Office (PHO) have set up two mobile clinics and evacuation areas within the capitol compound.