Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia declared on Sunday that this year's Sinulog Festival is the grandest in the history of the city.

The declaration came as excitement built over the festival's return to its traditional venue at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC).

"As expected, the 2025 Sinulog has become the biggest and grandest Sinulog in the history of Cebu City," he told the media.

He explained that, unlike in previous years when the number of contingents was underwhelming, the 2025 edition is larger and more vibrant with full participation from the province.

"Last year, we barely reached 20 contingents. But now, with the province adding around 15 more, can you imagine how grand it will be?" Garcia said.

He also noted that the Province of Cebu pledged full support and even donated P33 million.

The Sinulog Festival, an annual cultural and religious event in honor of Señor Santo Niño, is one of the biggest festivals in the country. For years, it was held at the CCSC.

However, former Mayor Michael Rama moved it to the South Road Properties (SRP) in 2023 and 2024.

This decision was opposed by Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and several mayors, who raised safety concerns about the SRP venue, prompting the provincial government to withdraw its support.