FOREIGN visitors joined locals in Cebu to celebrate the vibrant Sinulog Festival on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, experiencing the rich cultural traditions and festivities firsthand.
The Sinulog Festival is a yearly cultural event celebrated on the third Sunday of January in Cebu, with the main activities taking place in Cebu City.
Rob Brand, a foreign national from Australia, said in an interview with VoxPop Cebu that he attended the Sinulog festivals at least six to seven times over the years.
Despite the heat, Brand patiently waited for the street dance performances along Alcantara St. in Cebu City on Sunday.
When asked about his expectations for this year’s event, he said that every year exceeds the other and shared his excitement for the festivities.
“I’ve seen so many Sinulog festivals and I keep coming back…I’ve been here several times before. I know it’s going to be crowded, noisy, and colorful. It’s part of the culture—you’ve got to come down at least once,” said Brand.
David Morales, a first-time visitor to Cebu, said in a separate interview that his overall experience has been great.
However, Morales said he was still adjusting to the overwhelming size of the Sinulog crowd.
“This is my first time in Cebu, first time in Sinulog…I am enjoying it very much,” said Morales.
The Mexican visitor toured the Cebu City Sports Center, where the main events were taking place, as well as the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, home to the miraculous image of the Santo Niño.
In addition to participating in the Sinulog festivities, he also visited the Mactan Shrine in Lapu-Lapu City to learn more about Cebu’s past. (DPC)