Mobile technology makes Sinulog more interactive

THE Sinulog Foundation Inc., in collaboration with journalism start-up InnoPub Media and Smart Communications Inc., has tagged some dancing contingents with quick response (QR) codes in their banners.

When scanned with a phone or tablet, the codes trigger the download of information about the contingent. The system also allows people to “Like” a contingent’s performance on Facebook or leave comments.

The system was piloted during the Sinulog Sa Kabataan sa Lalawigan and Sinulog Sa Kabataan sa Dakbayan last Jan. 12 and 13.

To download information from QR codes printed on the contingent banners, one needs to be connected to the Internet and needs to have a QR code scanner. A free QR code scanner can be downloaded in their phone’s application market.

The project is part of a digital tourism program pioneered in Cebu by InnoPub Media and Smart, with the support of the Department of Tourism and the Cebu City government. Several heritage areas in Cebu, including Fuente Osmeña Circle, Compañia Maritima and spots in historic barangay Pari-an, contain special markers with QR codes.

The QR coding of tourism and heritage sites is being pioneered in Cebu but is set for implementation in other parts of the country.

Next week, the Ilo-ilo City leg of the project will be started in time for Dinagyang Festival.

Also released in time for the Sinulog is “A Guide To Sinulog 2013,” an electronic resource for smartphones, tablets and e-readers. The guide contains information about the festival, schedules, winning Sinulog Photo Contest entries and even a listing of all accredited establishments by the Department of Tourism.

The electronic guidebook also contains a mini-directory of important contact numbers that have a “press to call” feature that allows people to initiate the calls from the guidebook itself.

“It’s a one-of-a-kind project. It’s a unique resource that would help our guests make the most of the biggest festival in the Philippines,” said Sinulog Foundation Executive Director Ricky Ballesteros.

The guide has been available for free download on the MyCebu.ph website and through phone scanning of leaflets, posters and even newspaper articles.

A special download poster can be found at the Jump Experience Center in SM City Cebu.

The Sinulog guide is part of the “A Guide To Cebu” electronic guidebook project, which is also offered for free download in various locations.