CEBU - SFI executive director Ricky Ballesteros and project director Dolores Suzara, who accepted the amount on behalf of SFI Chairman and Cebu City acting Mayor Michael Rama at the Office of the Governor.
“We are very happy for the donation. We did not expect this,” Ballesteros told reporters as she thanked the governor for her support.
Some of Sinulog’s biggest sponsors were not able to come up with the usual expected budget.
Garcia, who has been dancing in the opening and closing of the Sinulog since 2005, said the provincial government understands that the SFI is having hard time looking for sponsors because of the worldwide economic meltdown.
“Since the Sinulog is a yearly celebration in Cebu, it is only right to help the foundation when help is really needed,” Garcia said as she further stressed that SFI deserves help since it showcases Cebu’s finest.“Para mani natong tanan ang Sinulog,” Garcia said.
When asked if acting Rama sent her a formal letter asking for her help, Garcia said that she was the one who offered the help during a conversation they had.
“Acting Mayor Mike Rama sent a letter explaining their difficulties and hinting if the Province of Cebu could financially help,” she said.
Asked if she would extend Mayor Tomas Osmeña the same offer is he asked her, Garcia replied: “I’m just as curious as you.”
Both Osmeña and Garcia have been openly critical of each other’s projects ever since a proposed land exchange deal between the City and Province collapsed in early 2006.
As a result, the province closed certain roads in the city that crossed Capitol-owned lots, while the city sat on permit applications for a provincial project in Banilad.
Both parties are now fighting in court over ownership of Fuente Osmeña and its surrounding properties. — Garry B. Lao with Darlanne Sino Cruz (CIT Masscom intern)/BRP (THE FREEMAN)