Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy has made a public appeal to the organizers of the Sinulog Festival, urging them to avoid accepting sponsorships from gambling-related companies. This call aims to protect the religious essence of the annual celebration dedicated to the Santo Niño. The archbishop's statement was released on Friday, January 9, 2026.
Partnership Announcement Sparks Concern
The appeal comes directly after the Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) announced a major partnership. On Thursday, January 8, 2026, SFI revealed on its Facebook page that BingoPlus would be the co-presenter for Sinulog 2026.
BingoPlus is described as the Philippines' first licensed online traditional bingo platform. It was launched in January 2022 by DigiPlus Interactive Corp. The platform offers digital bingo and other casino-style games.
In its announcement, SFI framed the collaboration positively. The foundation stated the partnership was built on a shared commitment to faith, culture, and community. It said BingoPlus would add to the festival's energy, celebrating joy and connection.
Church Leader Draws a Moral Line
Archbishop Uy responded firmly the following day. He emphasized that the Sinulog is not merely a cultural or tourism event. At its core, it is a religious devotion rooted in faith and trust in God.
The prelate warned that accepting funds from industries with moral conflicts risks turning the sacred feast into a "commercial spectacle." He directly linked gambling to serious societal problems like addiction, financial ruin, and family breakdown, which often hurt the poor the most.
"For this reason, I hope that the Sinulog Festival Organizers will refrain from receiving sponsorships from gambling establishments," Uy said. He argued such partnerships send a conflicting message, especially when the church discourages the harmful habits these industries promote.
Organizer's Defense and Distinction
Following the archbishop's appeal, SFI Director Jojo Labella offered a defense. He revealed that the foundation had actually rejected many offers from gambling companies and online gaming platforms. Labella stated they sought guidance from church friars and decided not to accept online gambling sponsorships to avoid the appearance of patronizing gambling.
Despite this general stance, Labella confirmed the BingoPlus deal remains. He sought to distinguish it by linking bingo to church fundraising traditions. "BingoPlus is also part of the fundraising activities of the Church," Labella said, noting religious institutions have long used bingo-style games for fundraising. SFI insists the partnership was assessed in this context and does not equate to promoting gambling.
Seeking Aligned Partners and Future Implications
Archbishop Uy suggested organizers should seek financial support from sources that align with the festival's principles. He encouraged partnerships with public and private institutions that uphold values of faith, family, and community.
This appeal creates significant pressure on organizers with the major festival set for Sunday, January 18, 2026. Rejecting a major sponsor like BingoPlus could impact the event's budget, but Uy stressed that the credibility of the Sinulog as a tool for evangelization depends on the moral choices made in its organization.
The archbishop concluded by firmly stating the festival's primary identity: "The Sinulog is not merely a cultural event or a tourism activity. It is, above all, a religious celebration, rooted in our faith and centered on the Child Jesus. Its spiritual meaning must be preserved, protected, and respected."
