The organizers of the Sinulog Festival have made a clear stand to protect its religious roots, choosing to decline financial support from gambling-related companies. This decision comes after a public appeal from Cebu's highest Catholic official.
Church Guidance Leads to Sponsorship Refusal
The Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) confirmed it rejected sponsorship offers from online gaming platforms and other gambling-related entities. This move followed a direct appeal from Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy, who emphasized the need to preserve the religious character of the festival dedicated to the Santo Niño. SFI director Jojo Labella stated the foundation engaged in careful discernment and consultation with Church leaders before making the final call.
"We really abided by it. There were a lot of sponsorship offers, and honestly, we badly need funds. But our president decided to say no," Labella explained. He acknowledged the foundation faces financial constraints but prioritized the festival's values over monetary gain.
Distinguishing Bingo for Fundraising
Labella provided clarification regarding one sponsor, BingoPlus. He stated that organizers do not consider this partnership as promoting gambling in the same vein as online betting platforms. The foundation views bingo-style games within the context of traditional Church fundraising activities.
"BingoPlus is also part of the fundraising activities of the Church," Labella said, highlighting the long history of such games being used for charitable and community purposes by religious institutions. He added that the SFI is making concerted efforts to avoid creating any perception that the festival endorses gambling.
A Festival of Faith and Color
The announcement regarding sponsorships coincides with the vibrant kickoff of the Sinulog 2026 festivities. On January 9, performers from various schools in Cebu showcased the Sinulog dance in colorful costumes during the Opening Salvo Parade along Osmeña Boulevard in Cebu City. The parade set a joyful and devotional tone for the festival, which remains one of the country's most significant cultural and religious events.
The foundation's leadership sought wisdom from friars and other Church figures to determine both the festival's financial needs and the appropriateness of potential sponsors. "We asked for wisdom from the friars, how much we really need, and we decided not to accept online gambling sponsorships," Labella recounted. "We do not want to give the impression that we are patronizing gambling."
This firm stance reinforces the message that the Sinulog Festival is, above all, a celebration of faith and devotion, with its spiritual integrity taking precedence over commercial partnerships.
