CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia is considering declaring a holiday for schools on the day after the Sinulog Festival.
This was discussed in an interview with reporters yesterday, January 8, during the send-off ceremony for security personnel at the Cebu City Sports Center.
Garcia clarified that only Malacañang can declare an official holiday, but for school holidays, particularly for January 20, he said he is now studying its possibility.
“In so far as I am concerned, what I can do is declare a school holiday. That is something we are studying. Holiday for schools, no work, Malacañang; but holidays in schools, the mayor of Cebu can do,” said Garcia.
Meanwhile, following the send-off ceremony for at least 3,000 personnel who will be serving during the Sinulog Festival, Garcia said the city is “very ready” for the celebrations.
“A lot of hard work has been put into this preparation. In fact, our first meeting started last October,” said Garcia.
He added that their primary focus is the peace and order situation, as well as the safety of the spectators, as the city expects an “overflow” of people at the festival.
In his speech during the send-off ceremony, Garcia expressed his hopes that the shared purpose of service, protection, and devotion will take priority in kicking off the 460th Fiesta Señor and Sinulog Festival.
According to Garcia, the Sinulog Festival is more than just a celebration, adding that it "is the heart of Cebu’s rich cultural and religious heritage."
He also stressed on the huge role of the city’s protectors to ensure that everyone who participates feels secure and joyful.
Garcia also directed them to remain vigilant against threats to peace and order but to anchor each action in “patience, compassion, and maximum tolerance,” he said. – /ATO (FREEMAN)