Virtual or onsite Sinulog? SFI, City to decide soon

CEBU, Philippines —  While the decision whether to hold the Sinulog onsite or virtually is still practically up in the air, the organizers however assured of yet another fabulous Sinulog festival.

The Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) and the Cebu City government are working on finalizing their activities and guidelines to showcase a grand Sinulog festivity despite the pandemic.

Vice Mayor Michael Rama, who has recommended different activities, said that some international and out of town contingents have already expressed their interest to join the yearly dance competition.

“Ganahan sila moapil, kay  gusto gyud sila mohalad,” Rama said.

The yearly participants wanted to highlight their thanksgiving to Señor Sto. Niño.

Sinulog is a dance ritual in honor of the miraculous image of the Santo Nino.

Because of the pandemic, one of the alternative ways being presented is the virtual presentation.

Jojo Labella, Sinulog Foundation Inc. executive director, said he expect more contingents to sign up as the festival draws closer.

As to the religious activities, Cebu City Councilor Philip Zafra, who also sits as chairman of the City Council’s Committee on Peace and Order, shared the proposal of the city government and the management of the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu to prevent hordes of devotees.

Among the plans include the scrapping of the solemn and fluvial processions.  A motorcade will be done instead. The route for the motorcade is yet to be finalized.

Because of the current situation, Zafra encouraged the devotee to attend the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu Novena Masses via livestream to help prevent the further spread of the virus. — GAN (FREEMAN)