AFTER HIS ABSENCE LAST YEAR: Tommy to open grand parade

CEBU, Philippines - After he missed the Sinulog festivities last year at the height of his struggle with cancer, Mayor Tomas Osmeña will formally open the Sinulog grand parade this year.

Sinulog Foundation, Inc. Executive Director Ricky Ballesteros said the culminating celebration on Sunday will begin with a holy mass at 8:30 am at the Cebu City Sports Center, which will be followed by an opening address by Vice Mayor Michael Rama, chairman of SFI. 

Afterwards, the mayor would formally declare the grand parade open.

Ballesteros said the grand parade will have 122 official participants. Of the number, 43 are dancing contingents – 21 for the Sinulog Based Category and 22 for the Free Interpretation Category, 35 floats, 18 puppets, and 26 higantes (giants).   

Last year, 112 groups joined the parade. 

Ballesteros said the five dancing contingents from Masbate, San Carlos City, Lanao del Sur, South Cotabato and Tangub City have arrived and are being housed at the Abellana National School, City Central School and at the city sports center.

Ballesteros will the handlers of the out-of-town contingents today for a briefing.

Each contingent is only allowed a maximum of 30 persons in its support group and one vehicle that should be registered with SFI.

Puppet handlers are also advised to dress appropriately and not to wear slippers because they are included in the judging. Meanwhile, those carrying the Higantes are advised to have assistants so they can sustain the parade.

Groups with floats participating in the parade are also advised to make sure that their vehicles are in good condition during the parade to avoid interruptions. He reiterated that the throwing of merchandise items and leaflets is prohibited throughout the parade.

“Kinahanglang i-check gyud ang kondisyon sa ilang makina kay kung mapalyar gani ang ilang sakyanan, malangay gyud ang parade,” Ballesteros said.

He said contingents that would violate the rules will be dealt with accordingly and might face the possibility of disqualification.

Ballesteros further appealed to revelers to cooperate and avoid public disturbance during the grand parade for the success of the festivities. — Elly T. Bolonos/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)