Former champs nearly skipped parade

SEVEN-time Sinulog grand prize winner Sinanduloy Tribe almost missed this year’s celebration.

“We were supposed to rest this year and try to find a better idea for us to grab the championship again,” said Tangub City Mayor Jennifer Wee-Tan, recalling last year’s performance results when they placed second to Alcoy’s Siloy Festival contingent.

Then came “a very good idea” that convinced the mayor the group may be able to land the top spot this year in the Sinulog-based category, even if the group’s preparation only took two months.

“You will be surprised,” she added.

But more than showcasing the talent of the Sinanduloy Cultural Troupe, Tan said it was the mangkay (old maids) who made her change her initial decision.

“They reminded me about our panaad (promise) to Sto. Nino,” she said. “2008 was a very good year for us and in gratitude we are here to perform for the (Sto.) Niño.”

The mangkay, said Tan, is a group mostly of retired teachers who volunteer to make the cultural troupe’s costumes. The group also makes the costumes free of charge, a sign that the troop is not motivated by money but by commitment, Tan said.

Although she refused to share the details, the mayor said the dancing pilgrims from Tangub will wear a costume that is already “a story in itself.”

In fact, the Sinanduloy tribe’s costumes from previous performances are on display at the second level of the North Wing, SM City Cebu. The exhibit is open to public viewing until Jan. 19.

Tan also told reporters the city’s participation in the Sinulog is in support of Cebu City’s local government. “I want to give credit to your government, they have maintained a very good relationship with other LGUs,” she said. (DME/Sun.Star Cebu)