Sinulog rewind:‘Balik Cebu’ to showcase throwback performances

CEBU, Philippines — While the organizers of “Balik Cebu” decided to cancel events in its 20th year due to the pandemic, a throwback virtual show will be shown instead to commemorate the “Sinulog 2021” festival amid the strange times.

“Balik Cebu cancelled its events this year. Instead, a "rewind" of the past 19 years will be featured through digital outlets to keep the annual event alive and the brand active in the midst of the pandemic. There is no other way- we cannot compromise the health and safety of our community,” said Balik Cebu chairperson Tetta Baad.

In the last 19 years, Balik Cebu had been welcoming, hosting Balikbayan and foreign tourists coming to Cebu to witness the renowned festival.

Today, since travel had been suspended and mass gatherings are prohibited due to the virus threat, the Balik Cebu team decided to host a throwback virtual show, hoping to gain audience from all over the world—Cebuanos and foreigners alike.

The “Balik Cebu” program was initially designed to assist festival visitors in their needs such as acquiring tickets, tours , a welcome dinner, among others.

The Balik Cebu program is an offshoot of the initiative of tourism stakeholders to encourage more overseas Filipinos to come home.

From accommodating 200 returning Cebuanos in 2002, the program has grown over the years with more and more Balikbayans registering every year, including international tourists.