Cebu Archbishop Uy urges Sinulog organizers to 'refrain' gambling sponsorships

Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy has urged the Sinulog Festival organizers to "refrain" sponsorships from gambling establishments since it contradicts the values of the Santo Niño or the Child Jesus.

In a statement, Uy said the Santo Niño symbolizes innocence, purity, and trust in God.

Whereas, gambling establishments are linked to behaviors and environments that can lead to addiction, family breakdown, financial loss, and moral confusion.

“Aligning a sacred celebration with industries that often contribute to social problems does not honor the values the Santo Niño represents,” Uy said.

The prelate pointed out that accepting sponsorship from gambling establishments creates moral inconsistency, as the Church cannot encourage the faithful to reject harmful habits while allowing sacred celebrations to be supported by entities that promote the same.

Uy said rejecting the sponsorship means protecting the “Integrity and credibility” of the festival since the Sinulog is supposed to be a tool for evangelization.

“Accepting sponsorships from gambling sectors risks shifting public perception from a religious feast to a commercial spectacle, weakening its spiritual impact and confusing its true purpose,” Uy said.

Rejecting the sponsorship also upholds the dignity of the family and the poor, and encourages responsible stewardship, he maintained.

“The Sinulog is not merely a cultural event or a tourism activity. It is, above all, a religious celebration, rooted in our faith and centered on the Child Jesus. Its spiritual meaning must be preserved, protected, and respected,” Uy said.

“There are many institutions—public and private—that can and will support the festival without compromising its moral character,” he added.

The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City earlier reminded devotees and visitors to wear the proper attire when visiting the church.

Here is the program of the 461st Fiesta Señor in Cebu scheduled for January 2026.

The annual celebration honors the Santo Niño de Cebu or the Child Jesus and has the theme “In Santo Niño We Are One” as it calls pilgrims to unity in Christ. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News