Faith tourism
It was Thursday morning when both private and government sector representatives went to the Mactan Cebu International Airport to welcome the balikbayans who are in town for the Sinulog. They rode domestic and international flights, some of them connecting. As they went down the flight of stairs, they were greeted with big smiles, the Sinulog song and a lei was placed around their necks. Some of them danced to the beat, others also bringing with them the image of the Santo Niño. Outside, a group of people wearing the Sinulog costume danced with them alongside with a drum and bugle corp.
According to the Department of Tourism, the Sinulog festival is the best example of Faith Tourism. This is a program created under the leadership of Secretary Wanda Teo where we are trying to bring in tourists by attracting them to the faith and devotion of our people. If you happen to be around the downtown area by today, you will see a swarm of people by the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Despite the jam-packed crowd inside, others are outside praying fervently as if they are also inside. Others wave their hands in the air every time the famous gozos is played.
It is true that such practice brings so much curiosity. Why so many people? What's with the strong faith? Why the festivities? There could be so many questions an outsider could ask. Even I, who was born and grew up in Cebu still questions until today the many aspects of the Sinulog. Despite my going back and forth between the basilica and the Cebu City Sports Center for updates (as part of my job), I still somehow find myself astonished by the many things that are new to me or that amaze me.
I guess this makes us unique as a people. Never mind the thought that it is a form of paganism, that's where our ancestors came from anyway. The negative connotation of the festival is very minimal to the wide impact it brings not only to our tourism but our economy as well. This may be a hassle to some of us but little do we know that the festival is making waves not just on the national level but internationally as well. It is something to be proud of as a Cebuano and as a Filipino.
Tomorrow is the day of the Grand Parade. After weeks of practice and planning, this is the day that we all have been waiting for. Cebu will shine and be on the map again. Everyone will remember that this is by far the strictest Sinulog being organized, to shun away from more negative connotations online and around the world. I just hope that we can set aside differences for one day and join in the festivities, be one with each other and feel the beat that formed part of our history.
- Latest
