By Xander Ledesma
Forty-nine mayors from Cebu province signed a manifesto on Thursday, November 21, 2024, expressing their support for the annual Pasigarbo sa Sugbo festival, organized by Governor Gwendolyn Garcia.
The mayors highlighted the festival’s role in promoting the historical and cultural uniqueness of each town and city in the province. They emphasized that the event has generated significant tourism-related opportunities, benefiting local communities.
The manifesto was issued in response to a social media post that criticized the allocation of PHP200 million for the festival, claiming it was a waste of government resources. The mayors refuted these claims, explaining that the funds were distributed as subsidies to LGUs to support their participation in the festival, including logistical costs and cultural performances.
The mayors also emphasized the economic benefits of the festival, which creates opportunities for local talents, costume designers, artists, performers, and workers involved in the event’s preparations and execution.
Pasigarbo sa Sugbo is a significant cultural event held annually on August 6, a special non-working public holiday in Cebu province.