Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan clarified that the viral video showing money being thrown while she was dancing, which drew flak, was not taken during a “lavish dinner.”

“The footage was not taken during a “lavish dinner,” nor was it connected to government programs or projects. It was taken during the Hermano Night of the Catbalogan City Fiesta, a community celebration where the traditional Kuratsa dance was performed,” Tan said in an official statement posted on her official social media page on August 25, 2025. 

Tan pointed out that the Kuratsa is a cultural tradition long practiced in Samar and Leyte. 

“It is not limited to fiestas but is performed in many occasions such as weddings, birthdays, school events, and other community gatherings,” she said. 

“Part of the custom is the “gala” or money showering, which symbolizes generosity and community spirit. It is in no way a display of luxury or wealth, but a practice deeply embedded in our way of celebrating faith and togetherness,” Tan added. 

Further, the statement pointed out that in this instance, the Hermano Mayor 2025 of the Feast of Saint Bartholomew, Ruben Panaligan, served as the host of the celebration, and that Tan was an invited guest who took part in the Kuratsa in line with tradition. 

“It must also be highlighted that it was not only the Governor or the Hermano Mayor who took part in the gala, almost all of the people present during Hermano Night joyfully gave as part of the tradition,” the statement added.

In addition, it was emphasized that all proceeds from the gala were donated to the Saint Bartholomew Parish Church, the Diocesan Marian Shrine of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish of Abandon, the Our Lady of Ransom Chapel of Barangay Mercedes, and the Our Lady of Salvation Chapel of Canlapwas, all in Catbalogan City.