The Office of the Governor of Samar clarified that the viral “money shower” video involving Governor Sharee Ann Tan was a cultural tradition known as Kuratsa, not a display of excess or a “lavish dinner,” according to an official statement released on Monday, August 25.
The video was taken during the community celebration of Hermano Night, part of the Catbalogan Fiesta, where the traditional Kuratsa was performed. In this cultural dance, participants shower money as a symbol of generosity and community spirit.
“It is in no way a display of luxury or wealth, but a practice deeply rooted in our way of celebrating faith and togetherness,” the statement clarified.
The Office of Samar also emphasized that the event was not connected to any government programs or projects.
They explained that Kuratsa is a long-standing cultural tradition in Samar and Leyte, commonly performed not only during fiestas, but also at weddings, birthdays, school events, and other community gatherings.
Moreover, they said that during the Feast of St. Bartholomew in Catbalogan City, Hermano Mayor 2025, Ruben Panaligan hosted the celebration, where the governor an invited guest, participated in the traditional Kuratsa dance.
The event was attended by many who also joined the money dance, which is part of Waray-Waray culture. Organizers clarified that all proceeds from the dance were donated to several local churches such as the St Bartholomew Parish Church, the Diocesan Marian Shrine of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish of Ubanon, the Our Lady of Ransom Chapel of Barangay Mercedes, and the Our Lady of Salvation Chapel of Canlapwas, all in Catbalogan City, emphasizing the charitable and cultural nature of the event.
However, several netizens argued that while such practices may be acceptable in the private sector, public officials are held to a different standard. They pointed to a possible violation of R.A. 6713, Section 4(h), which states: “Simple Living – Public officials and employees and their families shall lead modest lives appropriate to their positions and income. They shall not indulge in extravagant or ostentatious display of wealth in any form.”
“We recognize that some may feel that public officials must avoid joining activities such as the Kuratsa in order to remain sensitive to the people's concerns. We deeply respect this view. Governor Tan joins these cultural traditions not to display wealth or power, but to honor the Samarnon identity and to support the causes they represent, in this case, the local church and its communities,” the statement added.
The statement also expresses that the local government recognizes and respects the concerns of the public about broader governance issues, as it emphasizes its ongoing commitment to accountability, transparency, and improving public services.
They also affirm that valid concerns from the people serve as a guiding force in their efforts to strengthen programs that aim to improve the lives of the people of Samar or the Samarnon.
“As we honor our cultural traditions, let us also remain grounded in their true meaning, community, generosity, and solidarity. These values are the same principles that guide the Provincial Government of Samar in serving our people faithfully,” they stated.
