MANILA – Promising tourists and locals alike to experience the Sinulog Festival as “as an experience that transcends the ordinary”, Department of Tourism (DOT) Chief Christina Garcia Frasco said that the Sinulog sa Sugbo, dubbed as the county’s biggest festival, is more than just a crowd-attracting event.
In her speech as the event’s guest of honor, Frasco described the festival as the microcosm of Cebu’s successful local tourism industry.
“The Sinulog Festival, with its kaleidoscope of colors and infectious energy, is a microcosm of Cebu’s very successful tourism industry and strategy. It’s more than just about drawing tourists, rather, it’s about immersing them in an experience that transcends the ordinary, inviting them to be part of a living, breathing culture, one that they can carry with them long after the festival lights have dimmed,” Frasco said.
Photo courtesy of DOT
Frasco expressed her gratitude in being able to join in the celebrations on Sunday, saying that as a Cebuano, it is privilege to be a part of the annual tradition where Cebuanos perform a dance ritual in honor of the miraculous image of the Santo Nino.
“I’m privileged to be here today as a Cebuano, to join all of you in the celebration of the Sinulog sa Sugbo Philippines which resonates with the beating heart of the Philippines, the rich tapestry of our culture. Our culture, our traditions, and the warmth of our people are unique facets of the Filipino identity that are invaluable assets that can captivate the entire world,” the tourism chief said in her address during the culminating activity held at Cebu City’s South Road Properties on Sunday (Jan. 21).
Photo courtesy of DOT
The festivities, which kicked off on January 12, started with community events such as nightly shows, parades, cultural shows, fluvial processions, firework displays, and reenactments which culminated in the grand celebration at the festival venue.
Prominent personalities who joined the festivities were Senators Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go, Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Cebu First Lady Malou Rama, Vice Mayor Raymond Garcia, and Sinulog Foundation Executive Director Elmer “Jojo” Labella, among others.
According to the Sinulog Foundation, more than 2.5 million revelers joined the celebration on Sunday, according to data as of 6PM of January 21, 2024.
