Stranded Las Piñas Sinulog participants finally return home

CEBU, Philippines — The last batch of Las Piñas City residents stranded in Cebu following their participation in the recently concluded Sinulog Festival has finally returned home, ending more than a week of uncertainty.

Barangay San Nicolas Proper Captain Clifford Jude Ninal confirmed to The Freeman yesterday that all members of the group have vacated their temporary billeting at Don Carlos Gothong Memorial National School in Barangay San Nicolas Proper and have safely returned to Las Piñas City.

The contingent—composed of more than 200 performers, propsmen, and support staff—arrived in Cebu on January 14 to take part in the annual Sinulog festivities. However, budget constraints prevented the group from immediately securing return transportation, leaving dozens stranded after the festival.

The situation sparked public concern and calls for assistance on social media, highlighting the financial and logistical challenges faced by cultural contingents traveling for major festivals.

Following the appeals, Las Piñas City Mayor April Aguilar intervened, allowing more than half of the group to return home last week. The remaining 96 members were forced to stay behind due to the unavailability of tickets. Their departure, originally scheduled for Sunday, was moved to Tuesday to accommodate all remaining travelers.

During their extended stay, assistance was provided by the Cebu City government, Barangay San Nicolas Proper, and former city councilor Joy Young—now head of the Local School Board—along with his friends, who helped shoulder food and logistical needs.

Some members of the group reportedly developed fever, colds, and cough, but barangay health workers immediately attended to them, preventing any hospital confinement.

Authorities said the coordinated support ensured that the stranded performers were properly cared for until their safe return home.

The Las Piñas City government later clarified that while the Sinulog contingent was not an official city delegation, assistance was extended to cover travel expenses and ensure their return. The Villar Foundation and other private individuals also contributed to help bring the group home. — /FPL (FREEMAN)