Capitol to send more costly float

CEBU, Philippines - The Pope-themed float that will be unveiled by the Cebu provincial government during the Sinulog Grand Parade on Sunday costs P400,000 or 10 times higher than last year’s float.

The Capitol sent a float last year that carried a nipa hut or “bahay-kubo” which resembled the rebuilding efforts made by the province after super typhoon Yolanda wreaked havoc in the northern Cebu in November 2013.

But though it costs more than last year, this year’s float is much simpler, although bigger, according to provincial information officer Ethel Natera.

Natera said float’s concept depicts unity represented by Pope Francis being one with Cebuanos during calamities.

The design of the float, which was presented yesterday to the media, features Pope Francis’ standee waiving his right hand to the people from a balcony. A replica of the Holy Child is also mounted on the globe situated at the back of the pontiff.

The “spirit of unity” will also be reflected on the side of the float where a map of the province can be seen along with the humanitarian aid and response efforts extended to the areas affected by the calamities.

It is not yet clear who among the Capitol officials will be riding on the parade float, although Natera hinted there will be young “models” wearing sashes of different countries, representing the places visited by the Pope.

Capitol’s dancing contingent is also getting ready for its presentation during the Sinulog Grand Parade.

This would be the second time the Capitol will send its float to the grand parade since 2003 when it bagged second place in that category.

Meanwhile, the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center will open its viewing area to the public tomorrow for the special dance presentation of its dancing inmates to welcome the Pope during his arrival in Tacloban City for his three-day apostolic visit.

This, despite the province not being included in the pontiff’s itinerary, said choreographer Vince Rosales.

The free viewing will be at 9 a.m. tomorrow. — (FREEMAN)