Cebu province donates P33 million for Sinulog Festival

Local

THE Cebu Provincial Government made its largest contribution yet to the Cebu City Government for the Sinulog Festival, handing over a P33-million donation on Friday, January 17, to support the event's return to its traditional route and original venue at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC).

Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia said the substantial donation reflects the Capitol's commitment to strengthening its partnership with the city and preserving Cebu’s cultural heritage.

She commended Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia for bringing the festivities back to the CCSC, describing it as a fitting tribute to the Sto. Niño and a celebration deeply rooted in the hearts of Cebuanos.

“Out of goodwill and in the spirit of solidarity, we are with the City of Cebu, the Province now illustrates our commitment to the principle of our governance where actions speak louder than words. Therefore, here is our contribution, a small contribution,” she said.

This year’s donation marks the largest financial support the province has given Cebu City since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mayor Garcia expressed gratitude for the donation, which follows a request made by the Cebu City Council through a resolution seeking financial aid from the province.

The resolution, authored by Councilor Joel Garganera, aimed to address the rising expenses of the Sinulog Festival.

Councilors questioned the province’s failure to fulfill previous pledges of P8 million in 2023 and P20 million in 2024, citing noncompliance with conditions.

Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera pointed out during the council’s discussion that those pledges had been conditional on the Sinulog Grand Parade and Ritual Showdown being held at the CCSC.

Mayor Garcia clarified that the 2023 and 2024 pledges were not fulfilled because the festivities were held at the South Road Properties (SRP) under the leadership of then-mayor Michael Rama.

He added that the funds had instead supported contingents from provincial towns and cities, benefiting participants rather than the Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI).

Cebu City has fully released the financial subsidies to all 18 city-based contingents participating in the Sinulog Festival. Each contingent received the remaining P500,000 of their P1 million subsidy.

Mayor Garcia confirmed that contingents from the province and out-of-town areas had also received P1.5 million each in financial support.

SFI and Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia extended financial assistance to uniformed personnel and other agencies vital to maintaining peace and order during the festival preparations.

Recipients of the aid included the Cebu City Police Office, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Bureau of Fire Protection.

To ensure public safety during the celebrations, the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) declared a red alert, ready to mobilize resources and personnel for emergencies.

Meanwhile, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) set up 37 eco-stations along the parade route to promote proper waste disposal.

He urged residents and visitors to prepare for road closures and keep personal belongings secure throughout the event. He also recommended weather-appropriate clothing, reminding participants to carry umbrellas or raincoats.

The Sinulog Grand Parade and Ritual Showdown are set for Sunday, January 19, at the CCSC, following the Solemn Foot Procession on Saturday, January 18.

Security measures include personnel stationed along the parade route and mobile teams patrolling to ensure a safe and orderly celebration.(MyTVCebu)