Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has urged residents to fly kites responsibly after a rising number of accidents in several barangays and along the Cebu Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) turned a cherished summer pastime into a growing public safety concern.
Kite flying has long been a summer tradition in the Philippines, including here in Cebu. It is enjoyed not only by children but also by adults when schools are closed and the winds are favorable.
However, incidents in Pasil, Duljo, Sawang Calero, and other parts of the city have highlighted the risks when kites are flown near busy roads and crowded neighborhoods.
A similar case was also reported along CCLEX recently, stressing how dangerous stray strings can be for motorists.
‘Mga Sugboanon, dili lang ni usa ka insidente, but several cases na ang na record sa lain laing lugar,’ Archival said in a public advisory.
He appealed to kite enthusiasts to shorten the length of their strings, especially in areas close to thoroughfares, to help prevent further accidents.
Motorists, particularly motorcycle riders, were likewise reminded to slow down and stay alert when passing through affected areas.
Kite strings, the mayor warned, can suddenly cross roadways and cause serious injury.
‘Simple actions can save lives. Magtinabangay ta,’ he stressed.
City Hall has already coordinated with CCLEX management, which has deployed personnel alongside roving teams from the city government to monitor kite flying near the bridge and remind residents of precautionary measures.
The advisory also reiterated standard precautions–avoid flying kites near highways, keep strings away from vehicles and power lines, and refrain from using metal or glass coated strings.
Archival also emphasized that community cooperation is vital to keeping the city safe.
‘This is part of our commitment to keeping Cebu City safe. Follow advisories, stay alert, ug amping kanunay, Sugboanon,’ he said.
Authorities also continue to encourage residents to fly kites only in open areas where risks to motorists and pedestrians are minimal.