Lumad Basakanon still lacks funds for performance

CEBU, Philippines - Barely nine days before the much-anticipated Sinulog Grand Parade, the Lumad Basakanon of barangay San Nicolas still awaits the release of the funds that would cover their expenses.

The group’s choreographer, Norman Navarro, said they are yet to meet with the officials of barangay San Nicolas within the week for the release of P700,000 for the contingent.

Still, the group is not losing hope because M. Lhuillier and the Asian College of Technology have reportedly pledged financial support to the group. Lumad Basakanon is competing under the Free Interpretation Category on December 17.

Navarro admitted they have not fully planned their expenses, considering that the major bulk of the money they would spend would come from the barangay.

In an interview with The Freeman, San Nicolas barangay captain George Rama said the request for funds is still pending at City Hall. He said he is confident that the budget will be approved next week.

“It’s part of the annual budget…the cash request is on the process,” Rama said.

Meanwhile, Navarro said they have already polished their dance steps and movements, albeit withholding the storyline and concept of their over-all performance.

“Kani among performance kay panaad, pasalamat kang Sr. Sto. Niño sa mga katuigan nga iya ming gitaagan og igong grasya,” he said.

The group will have 100 dancers from nearby barangays and schools like the Abellana National School and Don Sergio Osmeña Memorial School. The group also has 60 props men and 30 musicians.

Navarro’s younger brother, Dennis, is also helping in the choreography.

Lumad Basakanon has bagged several championship titles in the history of Sinulog. When it first joined in 1991, Lumad Basakanon won the 1st prize in the barangay division.

In 2005, the group was adjudged as the Grand Champion in the Free Interpretation Category in the Sinulog. They also won the Best in Costume and Best in Musicality Awards.

The group, known for its flawless execution of movements, also bested the festivals from provinces across the Philippines during the Aliwan Festival in Pasay City last May 2008.

Last year, the group spent around P800,000 and placed second in the Free Interpretation Category over Tribu Buyoganon of Abuyog, Leyte. — Marjun A. Baguio, University of Cebu Intern/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)