REGIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Samar Governor Clarifies Kuratsa' Video; Stresses It Was Part Of Cultural Tradition, Not Lavish Spending
Screengrab from viral video online
The Provincial Government of Samar has issued an official statement to clear up what it called “misleading reports” surrounding a video of Governor Sharee Ann Tan performing the traditional Kuratsa dance.
According to the Governor’s Office, the video was not taken during a “lavish dinner” nor was it in any way tied to government programs or projects. Instead, it was filmed during the Hermano Night of the Catbalogan City Fiesta, a community celebration that features the Kuratsa—a dance deeply rooted in Samar and Leyte’s cultural traditions.
The statement emphasized that the Kuratsa is not a display of wealth but a long-standing custom performed at weddings, fiestas, birthdays, school events, and other community gatherings. A key part of the tradition is the “gala” or money showering, which symbolizes generosity and community spirit rather than extravagance.
For this year’s fiesta, Hermano Mayor Ruben Panaligan hosted the event, with Governor Tan invited as a guest. The statement pointed out that it was not just the Governor or the Hermano Mayor who joined the Kuratsa but also many attendees who gladly participated in the gala. Importantly, all proceeds from the money showering were donated to local churches, including the St. Bartholomew Parish Church and several Marian shrines in Catbalogan City.
Acknowledging that some may feel public officials should avoid joining such activities to remain sensitive to people’s concerns, the Governor’s Office said it respects that perspective. However, it underscored that Governor Tan’s participation was not to flaunt wealth or power but to honor Samar’s cultural identity and to support the local church and its communities.
The statement also recognized the wider sentiments of the public on governance issues, affirming the provincial government’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and improved service delivery.
“As we honor our cultural traditions, let us also remain grounded in their true meaning—community, generosity, and solidarity,” the statement concluded, adding that these values guide the province in serving the people of Samar.
According to the Governor’s Office, the video was not taken during a “lavish dinner” nor was it in any way tied to government programs or projects. Instead, it was filmed during the Hermano Night of the Catbalogan City Fiesta, a community celebration that features the Kuratsa—a dance deeply rooted in Samar and Leyte’s cultural traditions.
The statement emphasized that the Kuratsa is not a display of wealth but a long-standing custom performed at weddings, fiestas, birthdays, school events, and other community gatherings. A key part of the tradition is the “gala” or money showering, which symbolizes generosity and community spirit rather than extravagance.
For this year’s fiesta, Hermano Mayor Ruben Panaligan hosted the event, with Governor Tan invited as a guest. The statement pointed out that it was not just the Governor or the Hermano Mayor who joined the Kuratsa but also many attendees who gladly participated in the gala. Importantly, all proceeds from the money showering were donated to local churches, including the St. Bartholomew Parish Church and several Marian shrines in Catbalogan City.
Acknowledging that some may feel public officials should avoid joining such activities to remain sensitive to people’s concerns, the Governor’s Office said it respects that perspective. However, it underscored that Governor Tan’s participation was not to flaunt wealth or power but to honor Samar’s cultural identity and to support the local church and its communities.
The statement also recognized the wider sentiments of the public on governance issues, affirming the provincial government’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and improved service delivery.
“As we honor our cultural traditions, let us also remain grounded in their true meaning—community, generosity, and solidarity,” the statement concluded, adding that these values guide the province in serving the people of Samar.
Aug 25, 2025
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