Stricter rules to be imposed for Sinulog 2026

Local

THE Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) is set to impose stricter rules on Sinulog 2026.

Organizers are now considering capping the number of contingents at 35 and enforcing tougher inspections on floats to avoid a repeat of last year’s crowding and compliance lapses.

SFI Executive Director Elmer “Jojo” Labella announced on Tuesday, September 2, that there are already several contingents from Cebu City, Cebu Province, Luzon, and Mindanao that have confirmed their participation.

He said invitations were issued as early as April to provide participants with sufficient preparation time and to facilitate the timely release of subsidies.

“In fact, last year gilimit gyud unta ni nato—15 out of town, 10 dakbayan, and 10 lalawigan—35 in total ka contingents,” Labella explained.

He stressed, however, that the final number will still depend on the decision of the festival’s executive committee.

SFI will also strictly enforce float guidelines after some entries exceeded the height limit in 2025, causing snags along the parade route.

“Lately, we revisited all the rules and guidelines. If only the guidelines were being followed, dili unta to mahitabo nga naay masangit,” Labella said. “That’s why we will have an earlier deadline and inspection para makita if they follow the guidelines. They really have to correct or modify aron dili na masangit.”

Floats are limited to 12 feet in height, measured from the ground. Labella also reminded commercial participants to highlight the Sto. Niño, the heart of the festival, rather than purely marketing products.

Labella added that qualifying rounds will be introduced, particularly for the Dakbayanon (city-based) and Kabataan (youth) categories.

“It will only be the first five who will be joining the grand parade,” he said, adding that the move will help “lessen overcrowding and ensure quality performances.”

Sinulog 2026 will remain at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC), consistent with Mayor Nestor Archival’s earlier announcement.

Archival had emphasized accessibility for devotees and proximity to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño as key reasons for retaining the downtown venue.

“The Sinulog will go back to the original place where it was conceptualized,” Archival said. “Mas daghan ang makatan-aw. Worship ni sa Señor Sto. Niño. Ibalik lang nato kay mas duol sa simbahan.”

The festival will also carry the theme “One Beat. One Dance. One Vision,” which was brought back in 2025 following the festival’s return to CCSC after two years at the South Road Properties.

Held every third Sunday of January, the Sinulog remains one of the Philippines’ grandest celebrations of faith and culture.(TGP)