Organizers Start Preparation For ‘Grander’ Sinulog in 2016

The Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) has started preparing for a grander Sinulog parade on the third Sunday of January next year, an official said.

SFI executive director Ricky Ballesteros said they will highlight in the celebration the 51st International Eucharistic Congress (IEC), a religious activity that will also be held in the city after the Sinulog festivities.

Ballesteros said they are conceptualizing a grand finale that will showcase different national costumes from countries in Asia, Europe and America, who will be sending delegations to the IEC.

He said all dancers for the grand finale will still be dancing to the traditional Sinulog beat.

Ballesteros said workers on Monday started putting up the stage at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC), which is expected to be finished within 10 days.

Ballesteros said the backdrop of the stage, including the Sinulog signs at the lower portion, will be covered entirely with light-emitting diodes (LED) screens, a first in the Sinulog.

He said some contingents that have started their rehearsals at CCSC this month, but were stopped, can resume their rehearsals once the platform of the stage is completed.

A total of 11 contingents have so far confirmed to join the Sinulog sa Kabataan-Dakbayan, which will be held a week before the Sinulog Grand Parade.

Of the 11, five are from the elementary while the six are from the secondary divisions.

At least six out-of-town contingents, including Catbalogan in Samar, Lanao del Norte, Panglao in Bohol, Abuyog in Leyte, Placer Masbate and the Province of Masbate, expressed their intention to join the festival next year. (PNA) LAP/EB/EDS