Sinulog Festival returns to original venue in 2025

The Sinulog Festival, one of the most celebrated cultural events in the Philippines, will return to its original venue at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) in January 2025. The festival had been held at the South Road Properties (SRP) for the past two years, but concerns about the venue prompted this change.

Cebu prepares for Sinulog 2025: A return to tradition at the Cebu City Sports Center

Acting Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia announced the decision during the One Cebu Expo last week, where he addressed a crowd that included Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and various local officials. Garcia cited numerous complaints from participants, dancers, organizers, and spectators about the SRP venue, including issues with the lack of shade, limited access to water and restrooms, and challenges posed by the venue’s proximity to the sea.

These conditions created discomfort for performers and attendees, leading some participants to withdraw in protest. In response, Garcia decided to move the festival back to the CCSC, where it has traditionally been held.

During his speech at the expo, Garcia expressed his enthusiasm for the move, noting that the successful staging of the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo at the CCSC offered valuable insights for the upcoming Sinulog preparations.

Garcia said on a published article that he was excited to witness the Pasigarbo festivals at the Cebu City Sports Center, or in Abellana, and this will also be a learning experience for the city of Cebu for the preparation to host the Sinulog in January at the same venue.

He also thanked Governor Garcia for allowing the Pasigarbo to be held at the CCSC, signaling a cooperative approach between the city and provincial governments.

Garcia emphasized the importance of early preparations for the festival, planning to convene stakeholders, including the Sinulog Foundation Inc., in the first week of September. He noted that the extensive holiday season in December could disrupt logistical arrangements, making it crucial to start planning well in advance.

He also said that to wait until November to start planning is not an option because the Sinulog season will already be starting by December and January.

Although Garcia is leading the preparations, he acknowledged that Mayor Michael Rama, who is currently serving a six-month preventive suspension, could overturn his decision upon his return in November. Garcia emphasized that while he is laying the groundwork, the final decisions will rest with Rama.

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Garcia also highlighted recent renovations at the CCSC, including new LED screens and improved electrical systems, which have enhanced the venue’s capacity to host large-scale events like the Sinulog. The festival is scheduled for January 19, 2025, and Garcia is committed to ensuring thorough and timely preparations.