Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has announced significant changes for the upcoming Sinulog 2026 celebration, aiming to create a more organized and time-limited festival that maintains the traditional spirit while addressing past issues.
Shorter Hours and Fewer Participants
During initial discussions with Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) Board of Trustees President Ricky Dacay, Mayor Archival expressed his desire to conclude next year's Sinulog festivities between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. The mayor noted that extended programs in previous editions had diminished spectator enthusiasm rather than enhancing their enjoyment of the celebration.
The main issues identified from past celebrations included too many participating contingents, unclear float specifications, outdated vehicles, and parade route blockages. "We learned from our mistakes. Number one, limit the number of contingents. The Sinulog spirit remains, but we don't need to overdo it," Archival stated.
Budget Review and Provincial Coordination
SFI Executive Director Emer "Jojo" Labella confirmed earlier that only 35 contingents will be permitted to join Sinulog 2026, a measure intended to prevent the congestion experienced during Sinulog 2025. The registration deadline remains November 30, though all arrangements are subject to change.
Mayor Archival also confirmed that the city will review the proposed P100 million budget for Sinulog 2026, considering ongoing rehabilitation and recovery efforts following Typhoon Tino. "If there are activities that aren't important, perhaps we can set them aside," he explained.
The mayor clarified that the city remains open to sponsorships, noting that "for example, if someone offers fireworks, we will accept."
Archival plans to coordinate with Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro to ensure a "unified Sinulog" approach where the province aligns with the city's plans. The provincial government has offered to host a Devotee City for pilgrims, while Cebu City stands ready to provide tents, comfort rooms, kitchen facilities, security, or even the use of the former quarantine center if needed.
"We appreciate the province's support. We just have to communicate the city's plans," Archival emphasized.
Mandaue City's Continued Participation
Despite the adjustments, Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito "Jonkie" Ouano confirmed their continued participation in the Sinulog Festival, even with a reduced budget of half their previous allocation.
"We already started practicing, but I told them we will only spend half of the total cost. Last year we spent about P10 million, so I said even P5 million would be better," Ouano stated.
The mayor emphasized that their team has already begun practice sessions and that festival participation remains part of the city's devotion to Señor Sto. Niño. He clarified that Mandaue City will not withdraw from the activities, even if their participation becomes simpler than in previous years.
"If it becomes simpler, the people will understand. We will not withdraw because it is already budgeted. In fact, we even cut the allocation in half," Ouano explained.
During the Sinulog 2025 celebration, Mandaue City achieved second place in both the Sinulog-Based Ritual Showdown competition and the musicality category, demonstrating their strong commitment to the festival tradition despite financial constraints.
