Talisay City has made the difficult decision to cancel several major upcoming events, including its 2025 Christmas celebrations and participation in Sinulog 2026, to redirect funds toward communities devastated by Typhoon Tino.
Mayor Announces Austerity Measures
Mayor Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas revealed that the city government reached this decision last week after conducting thorough damage assessments in barangays hardest hit by the recent typhoon. The move represents a significant shift in the city's priorities toward immediate recovery needs.
The cancelled events include the city's 2025 Christmas program, participation in the Sinulog 2026 contest, and the 2026 Charter Day concert. All budgets originally allocated for these festivities will now be channeled into rehabilitation and recovery efforts for areas severely affected by Typhoon Tino.
Simplified Holiday Celebrations
While the city will maintain some holiday traditions, Mayor Gullas emphasized that this year's observances will be markedly different. "We will not focus on beautifying our Christmas program," the mayor stated in Cebuano.
The city hall grounds will still feature a Christmas tree and Belen (Nativity scene), but the decorations will be simpler compared to previous years. Gullas described these symbols as representing hope during challenging times, while acknowledging that lavish displays are inappropriate given the current circumstances.
"We will still put up symbols of hope, but this is not the time for lavish displays," Gullas explained. "We need to help the areas that were washed out by Typhoon Tino."
Continuing Pattern of Fiscal Responsibility
This isn't the first time Talisay City has adjusted festivities to address emergency needs. The mayor recalled that during the city's recent fiesta, entertainment activities were limited to extend assistance to typhoon-affected local government units in northern Cebu.
The savings from cancelled events will be directly used for the city's own rehabilitation and recovery programs, according to the mayor's announcement. Many Talisaynons remain in need of assistance as they work to rebuild their homes and communities following the typhoon's destruction.
This strategic reallocation of funds demonstrates the city government's commitment to prioritizing essential recovery efforts over ceremonial activities during this period of community need.
