Cebu City is considering whether to keep fireworks in Sinulog 2027 as officials plan a bigger celebration while weighing the cost and concerns surrounding the traditional spectacle.
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr. said fireworks have become an expensive part of the festival and that the city is looking at whether they remain necessary for next year’s celebration.
“You cannot say that,” Archival said when asked during a press conference Monday, Oct. 5, if Cebu City would no longer have fireworks for Sinulog 2027.
Archival said the city has yet to make a final decision because it needs to balance several considerations, including concerns raised by some sectors, sponsors and the overall festival program.
The fireworks issue is among the details being discussed as the city and Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) organize the festival’s executive committee for the Jan. 17, 2027 celebration.
Despite the review of fireworks, Archival said Sinulog 2027 is expected to be grander while maintaining manageable festival operations.
“Yes, it will be grander,” he said when asked if Cebu could expect a bigger celebration next year.
“Sinulog, same gihapon ang set-up. We will stay here in the city,” Archival said.
The city is looking at a budget of around P100 million for Sinulog 2027, although Archival said the amount could still change. He said the estimate is based on previous spending and the final allocation could be similar or slightly lower.
The number of contingents joining the Sinulog Grand Parade will also influence the scale and cost of the celebration.
Archival said the city is considering increasing the number of participating groups, although no specific target has been set.
“Hopefully, we can probably increase siguro, depending jud sa Executive,” he said.
A larger number of contingents would require additional resources because the city provides support to participating groups, Archival said.
Security requirements would also increase. The festival previously required about 3,000 police personnel, but deployment could reach around 4,000 if participation grows.
“Mas modako ang contingents. Now, ’pag dako ang contingents, dako ang resources na atong magamit,” Archival said.
The mayor said the city wants to expand the festival without compromising its smooth conduct and is also studying ways to stage activities more sustainably.
The Sinulog Grand Parade is scheduled for Jan. 17, 2027, with the Cebu City Sports Center remaining the main venue for major festival activities.
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