Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda said the opening activities of the 47th edition of the Sinulog sa Kabankalan 2023 Friday was a success, according to a press release from the Mayor’s Office.
Miranda said that aside from hotels and pension houses in the city that were fully booked, the crowd that gathered at the plaza during the launching night on January 6 was unexpected.
Even small businessmen and sidewalk vendors saw a huge increase in revenues as the activities in both the public plaza and football field was in a frenzy with music and bands, he said.
Miranda added that he expects a much bigger crowd and more revelers on January 15, the highlight of the Sinulog sa Kabankalan 2023.
The much awaited Grand Tribal Parade is slated to start 9 a.m. of January 15 and will be followed by the Tribal Arena Dance competition at 2 p.m., the press release said.
Chocolate Factory, a renowned national band, will perform after the awarding ceremonies, it said.
Performing back to back with Chocolate Factory are celebrities Maui Taylor, Katya Santos, Vxon and Zephanie Dimaranan.
Fascia Anne Ravena and Nico Nicolas will also perform in the evening of January 14 at the Kabankalan Public Plaza.
The Sinulog sa Kabankalan 2023 will be capped by a Grand Fireworks Display.
“I am inviting everyone to come and celebrate with us here in Kabankalan City,” Miranda stressed.
“Every night will be a night to remember during the Sinulog 2023,” he said reflecting on the nightly concerts and live DJs in both the public plaza and football field.
Adding color and glamor to the already popular St. Niño Festival is the still present display of giant stars and the longest and brightest Tunnel of Lights in southern Philippines.
“Come everyone and let us thank our Creator and the Sto. Niño for protecting us during the pandemic and for giving us back our happy days,” Miranda said.
Meanwhile, acting City Administrator Randy Siason emphasized that police and first aid responders will be ready for any contingency.
Siason said that an emergency response command post will be situated at the public plaza during the celebration.
“We also installed portalets in strategic areas for the convenience of everyone,” he said.
He also appealed to the public to dispose of garbage properly to ensure cleanliness for the duration of the 47th Sinulog Festival.*
