As Cebu celebrates this year’s Fiesta Señor and Sinulog, Governor Pamela Baricuatro urged the faithful to look beyond the grand performances and see the celebration as a renewed commitment to faith, unity, and collective healing.
In her Sinulog message, Baricuatro emphasized that devotion to the Señor Sto. Niño is more than a festival of colors and choreography, describing it as a reflection of the values that bind Cebuanos together as a people.
She said Sinulog continues to define Cebu’s identity—one rooted in deep spirituality, resilience, and a shared sense of hope passed down through generations.
According to the governor, this year’s observance carries added meaning as the province emerges from a series of challenges that tested both communities and institutions.
Despite these hardships, she said, Cebuanos have consistently shown the strength to rise by supporting one another and drawing courage from their faith.
Baricuatro likened Cebu’s journey to the rhythm of the Sinulog dance itself—marked by progress and pauses, yet always moving forward with purpose.
“May this celebration renew our hearts, strengthen our compassion, and remind us to care for one another, especially the vulnerable, the tired, and those still rebuilding,” she said.
The governor expressed hope that Sinulog 2026 would inspire greater compassion, particularly toward those still recovering, and encourage acts of care that extend beyond the festivities. She also appealed to the public to celebrate with responsibility and reverence, stressing that the essence of Sinulog lies in devotion and solidarity rather than extravagance.
“As your governor, I pray that the Señor Santo Niño continues to guide our province, protect our families, and bless every home with peace, health, and hope,” Baricuatro said.
As a personal expression of faith, Baricuatro shared that she will once again join the Sinulog dance, describing her participation as a halad, or offering, to the Holy Child.
She is set to dance with the Danao City guest contingent during the main event, continuing what she described as a tradition among Cebu governors as a public act of devotion.
She added that she invited Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival to join her, underscoring the importance of unity among leaders during one of the province’s most sacred celebrations.
Beyond symbolic participation, the provincial government has committed concrete support to the festivities, allocating P10 million to the Sinulog Foundation Inc. to help ensure smooth operations and logistics.
Additional financial assistance will also be extended to participating local government units, with component cities and municipalities receiving funding to support their contingents. (SBA)
Photo by Kaiser Jan Fuentes
