In a significant move to support one of the country's most iconic festivals, the Cebu Provincial Government has announced a substantial financial package for the Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) and participating local government units.
Governor Announces Multi-Million Peso Aid Package
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro revealed the details during a press conference held on Wednesday, January 7, 2025. The provincial government is set to provide P10 million in monetary assistance to the Sinulog Foundation Inc., the primary organizer of the grand Sinulog Festival.
Furthermore, a separate fund has been allocated for the component cities and municipalities that actively participate in the festivities. Governor Baricuatro emphasized the rationale behind the differing amounts for cities and towns.
"Yes, we will give monetary assistance. The municipalities will get P5 million while the component cities will receive P3 million each," the Governor stated in Cebuano. She added that this tiered system was designed "to make the competition fair, because component cities generally have more funds compared to municipalities."
List of Beneficiaries and Fund Release Process
According to the announcement, the municipalities that will receive the P5 million each are:
- Carmen
- Dumanjug
- Moalboal
- Asturias
The component cities allotted P3 million each include:
- Toledo City
- Carcar City
- Mandaue City
In a related development, Cebu Province Assistant Administrator Aldwin Empaces confirmed that the municipality of Alcoy has already received its financial assistance, indicating the disbursement process is underway for some LGUs.
Compliance Requirements for Sinulog Foundation
The release of the P10 million assistance to the Sinulog Foundation Inc. will follow a specific protocol. As a non-profit organization, the SFI must first comply with standard government requirements.
The assistance is contingent upon the foundation finalizing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the provincial government. This step is a standard procedure to ensure accountability and proper use of public funds granted to private, non-profit entities.
This financial boost from the Capitol is expected to significantly aid in the successful staging of the Sinulog Festival, ensuring its grandeur and cultural significance are upheld while providing equitable support to the local governments that contribute to the event's vibrant and widespread celebration across the province.
