Governor Baricuatro to Perform at Sinulog 2026, Invites Danao City as Guest Contingent

Governor Pamela Baricuatro has officially confirmed that she will take part as a dancer in the Sinulog 2026 festival. Following customary practice, the Province of Cebu traditionally sends a contingent to the event. However, due to a series of recent calamities, Governor Baricuatro has requested the City of Danao to join as the guest contingent this year.

This invitation was welcomed by Danao City Mayor Ramonito Durano, who agreed to the governor’s appeal.

In observance of the longstanding customs and traditions of Cebu province, Governor Baricuatro also announced her intention to personally perform in the festival. This participation serves as a gesture of gratitude and a prayerful response to the calamities experienced in Cebu.

As usual, the provincial government will select a theme to guide their dance presentation during the festival.

The Sinulog festival derives its name from the Cebuano word "Sulog," which translates to "like water current movement" in English. This is reflected in the forward-and-backward dance steps that have become a ritualistic expression of devotion to the Santo Niño.

Historically, the first Sinulog celebration took place in 1980 when several student groups in Cebu performed during the feast of the Santo Niño.

Today, the Sinulog festival is recognized as the mother of all festivals in Cebu, celebrated annually on the third Sunday of January.