Odilao: Board creation confuses Cebu’s Sinulog

CEBU, Philippines — The “Father of Sinulog” has spoken over the controversy between the Sinulog Foundation Inc. and the newly created Sinulog Governing Board.

In an informal meeting with his fellow members of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and some members of the media, retired Cebu Customs Collector David “Kuya Boy” Odilao Jr. has clarified certain aspects of the confusion arising from the executive order of Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella creating the board and the existing foundation.

“Having given the background of the ‘Sinulog sa Sugbo’, it is my belief that, with the existence of the Foundation, the creation of another body such as the Sinulog Governing Board just caused confusion and misunderstanding,” Odilao said.

Vice Mayor Michael Rama earlier questioned the board’s creation, which reportedly may create conflict with the functions of the foundation which he heads.

Labella, on the other hand, had explained that the board is meant to oversee all facets of the Sinulog Festival, both in cultural and religious activities.

But for Odilao, he said the city government, through the board, seems to take over the functions of the foundation.

“This controversy would not have happened if both parties would have consulted with me, as the ‘Father of Sinulog’,” Odilao said.

He added that he has been trying to reach out to both Labella and Rama, but to no avail.

The Sinulog sa Sugbo was one of the activities created by the Ministry of Youth and Social Development (MYSD)-7 when Odilao was the regional director in 1980 and concurrent collector of Customs of Cebu International Airport.

The first “Sinulog sa Sugbo” was undertaken on January 19 to 20, 1980 under the auspices of MSYD-7 as the coordinating agency, the Augustinian Community Cofradia del Santo Niño de Cebu, the city government of Cebu, the Association of Regional Executives of National Agencies in Region (ARENA-7) and the Rotary Club of Talisay.

The SFI was organized upon the suggestion of Odilao to then mayor Florentino Solon with the intention to institutionalize the annual Sinulog sa Sugbo celebration when he decided to turn it over after its successful launching in 1980. — GAN (FREEMAN)