Authorities in the Philippines are keeping a close watch on Tropical Storm Ada as it approaches, with a critical focus on the safety of the major seaborne religious procession planned for Cebu this weekend.
Safety Assessment for Sinulog Fluvial Parade
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) is coordinating with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Cebu City local government to evaluate whether conditions will permit the fluvial parade to proceed on Saturday, January 17, 2026. A coordination meeting was held on Thursday, January 15, to discuss weather conditions and safety protocols for the event.
Pagasa Visayas Weather Specialist Mark Gales stated that, based on the latest forecast, there is a low probability of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 being raised over Central Visayas. He added that no significant waves are anticipated in the Mactan Channel on Saturday. "If there are no major changes, the procession will push through as scheduled," Gales confirmed in a phone interview.
Storm Track and Potential Impacts
As of 2 p.m. on Thursday, Tropical Storm Ada was located moving northwestward. It packed maximum sustained winds of up to 65 kilometers per hour (kph) with gusts reaching 80 kph. While the storm is expected to brush past Eastern Samar and Catanduanes before turning away, Pagasa has not completely ruled out the possibility of landfall over Eastern Samar or Southern Luzon.
Gales noted that while the chance of Signal No. 1 remains low for Central Cebu, northern areas of Cebu have a higher likelihood of the signal being raised in subsequent weather bulletins. Changes in the storm's track could still influence local wind conditions.
Weather Outlook for Sinulog Weekend
The PCG's initial assessment leans toward allowing the seaborne event to proceed. However, authorities have clarified that the procession may be suspended or canceled if Signal No. 1 is officially issued.
For Friday, January 16, Central Cebu can expect cloudy skies with rains and strong winds, with possible moderate to heavy rainfall. Conditions in Central Cebu are forecast to improve by Saturday, though rains and strong winds may persist in northern parts of the province. By Sunday, January 18, the weather is expected to shift to generally hot and humid conditions with a low chance of rain.
Gales advised the public, especially those attending Sinulog festivities, to come prepared. He recommended bringing umbrellas for potential rain and water to stay hydrated. The community is urged to monitor official updates from Pagasa and local disaster agencies for any last-minute changes regarding the storm and the weekend's events.
