Governor Pamela Baricuatro suspended classes on Monday, January 19, for all levels in public schools across Cebu to give students who participated at the 2026 Sinulog Festival much needed rest.
The order also covers employees of the provincial capitol, who rendered services over the weekend. The rest day was granted as “compensatory day off” for the concerned employees after Cebu successfully organized its largest religious and cultural event.
“Considering the large number of students who participated in the 2026 Sinulog Festival, Gov. Pamela Baricuatro has ordered the suspension of classes tomorrow (Monday) for all levels in public schools under provincial jurisdiction,” the provincial government said in a Facebook post on Sunday evening.
“This will allow students time to rest and travel home safely. Additionally, Capitol employees who are working during the festival this weekend are granted a compensatory day off tomorrow (Monday),” it added.
Baricuatro joined her fellow Cebuanos at the Sinulog gatherings. In her message, she paid tribute to the courage and resilience of her constituents who continue to rise with faith, unity, and unwavering hope, despite trials and the loss of loved ones during calamities.
“After the earthquake, after Typhoon Tino, and after the recent landslide in Binaliw, we gather not just to celebrate but to remember, to heal, and to honor the lives we’ve lost,” the governor was quoted saying.
The Sinulog Festival is one of the country’s largest public gatherings, drawing thousands of participants and spectators each year.
