Talisay City Cancels Major Events to Prioritize Typhoon Recovery Efforts

Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas has announced the cancellation of several major upcoming events, including the 2025 Christmas program, participation in the 2026 Sinulog festival, and the 2026 Charter Day concert. This move aims to allocate the budget toward rebuilding communities severely impacted by Typhoon Tino.

Mayor Gullas explained that the decision was reached last week after assessing the extensive damage suffered by several barangays due to the typhoon. Despite the cancellations, the city plans to install a Christmas tree and a nativity scene at the city hall grounds; however, the decorations will be simpler compared to previous years.

"We will not focus on elaborate Christmas programs this year. We will still display symbols of hope, but this is not the time for lavish celebrations. Our priority is assisting the areas devastated by Typhoon Tino," Gullas stated.

The funds originally intended for the Christmas program, Sinulog competition, and Charter Day concert will instead support rehabilitation and recovery initiatives. The mayor emphasized that many residents of Talisay remain in need of assistance following the disaster.

Gullas also recalled similar measures taken during the city’s recent fiesta, where entertainment activities were scaled down to aid local government units in Northern Cebu affected by the typhoon. "The savings from these cancellations will be channeled towards our own rehabilitation and recovery efforts," he added.