9,500 people to join Gabii sa Kabilin

AROUND 9,500 people are set to participate in Gabii sa Kabilin (GSK), an event where participants visit museums, heritage sites, enjoy cultural shows, exhibits and other activities on Friday, May 12, 2023.

Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (Rafi) started GSK in 2007, and the cultural event is now in its 17th year, with 22 participating heritage sites in the cities of Cebu, Talisay and Lapu-Lapu.

GSK event director Haidee Palapar said the revenue from ticket sales will contribute to the GSK fund, which would ensure the sustainability of the event.

A portion of the revenue, Palapar said, will also be allocated to the partner museums, as agreed upon through a memorandum of agreement.

In a separate interview, Regina Yoma, curator of the University of San Carlos Museum in Cebu City, mentioned that museums will receive a percentage based on ticket sales, and the institution received an approximately 30 percent share from GSK held in October last year.

Palapar said GSK’s purpose is to celebrate the rich history of Cebu and promote the preservation of Cebuano culture and heritage through museum visits.

“Gabii sa Kabilin is really for celebrating the rich culture and heritage of Cebuanos. So, who else should be celebrating this but Cebuanos themselves,” said Palapar.

This year’s theme revolves around “Pagpanag-iya” or “Owning Your Story,” which also commemorates the upcoming 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence on June 12. GSK ticket prices are P200 and P300. (BIPSU intern Ralph Martinez)