THE Cebu Provincial Government will participate in the float competition during the Sinulog Grand Parade on Jan. 18 by showcasing a Pope Francis-themed one.
For the first time in Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III’s administration, the Capitol will send a dance contingent, whose participants are Capitol employees, for a dance presentation during the grand parade.
Provincial Information Officer Ethel Natera said the design and concept of the float was made by one of the artists of her office.
“Ang concept lang is naa ang (The concept is there is the image of the) Pope, Sto. Niño and the countries he has visited so far. It is like the Sto. Niño enlightening the Pope,” Natera said in a text message.
The theme of the float is in line with Popes Francis’s visit in the country.
The pope will arrive on Jan. 15 and will visit Manila and Tacloban City, which is badly affected by typhoon Yolanda last Nov. 8, 2013.
Natera said no Capitol official will ride on the float.
Assistant Provincial Administrator Ramil Abing said they are finalizing the design with the Provincial Information Office.
Abing said they will give the design to the Provincial Engineering Office for the cost estimate.
“We will prepare this one, the float, this week as well as the dance contingent,” Abing said.
He clarified that the dancers from Capitol will not join in any category of the Sinulog dance competition, but will just have a presentation.
The float design will still be approved by Davide and Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale.
Abing said the budget will come from the office of the governor.
Provincial Engineer Hector Jamora said they have not yet determined how much will the float cost.
Last year, the theme of the Capitol’s float was in line with the Province’s rehabilitation efforts in the northern Cebu towns that were affected by typhoon Yolanda.