For nine years in a row, I’ve been one of the millions of Sinulog onlookers hitting the streets, getting henna tattoos, and taking loads of pictures at every stop. Each year offers a varied - sometimes frantic - yet beautiful experience for me; and this year’s celebration is no different.
Allow me to give you the lowdown of Sinulog 2013, as my mind perceives it.
Solemn Procession of the Miraculous Image of Sto. Nino
I always join the procession, the one that happens on a Saturday before the grand parade. Joining has somewhat become a pledge I intend to continue for reasons more than one. Here are a few tips when joining:
1. Wear rubber shoes, if possible. - Flaunting your flashy toenail colors by wearing flip flops is not a very good idea. You’d get stepped on by a horde of devotees who, if you’re unlucky, are wearing thick-soled shoes or kinda-pointy heels.
2. Don’t walk behind the carroza (carriage). - Many people deem it better to walk behind the holy image for spiritual reasons. While the Navy guards held a rope that distanced the people from the flower-decked carroza, devotees pushed their way closer. The result? A lot of pushing and shouting... Where’s the “solemn” in that?
3. Don’t forget your rain gear. - If you were present in the wet Sinulog procession of 2011, you would know better than to come unprepared. Your raincoats, umbrellas, extra shirts will always come in handy on events such as these.
Dressing
I noticed a lot of families wearing groups shirts last year, and saw a lot more people into it this year. Aside from families, I saw barkadas and couples dressed up in matching shirts. I think it’s a good idea - wearing similar shirts will make it easy for your group to spot each other. Some even cut and styled their shirts for a more festive vibe.
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| photo from philippinestreetfashion.com |
Grand parade
- Watch Sinulog inside the Cebu City Sports Complex - for those who want to watch the competition in an organized manner
- Watch street dancers from bleachers stationed along Jones - for those who want to have a good look at the street dances and won’t mind the occasional prodding from fellow onlookers
- Walk around the streets - for those who can’t stay in one place and are prepared to walk through crowds
If A, make sure you have packed your meals for breakfast, lunch, and snacks. You can’t leave your station once the program starts.
If B, leave home early for a perfect spot at the bleachers. If you arrive at 9am, most probably all the good seats are taken.
If C, put on sunblock, buy a hat, bring drinking water and make sure you’re ready for a lot of body-to-body action or a possible stampede!
Fireworks
I just love fireworks! That’s why I got so frustrated when I wasn’t able to see the grand fireworks display at Abellana. Oh well, I think the ones from Crown Regency and SM were enough. Here's one from the SM fireworks competition: