Ethnomathematics Journal
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026): March

Exploring the mathematics of the Sinulog Festival

Ofelia Aljade Ramos (University of the Philippines Cebu)
Roberto Jr. Sagge (West Visayas State University)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study documents mathematical knowledge embedded in the Sinulog Festival through an ethnomathematical lens. Addressing the limited empirical documentation of cultural practices as mathematical systems, the research employed a qualitative ethnographic design over six months of fieldwork in Cebu City. Data were collected through repeated observations, semi-structured interviews with three key festival practitioners (choreographer, logistics coordinator, and historian), artifact analysis, and visual documentation. Thematic coding identified recurring mathematical domains across choreography, costume and prop design, and logistical planning. Findings reveal systematic applications of symmetry, geometric transformations, proportional reasoning, counting systems, measurement, estimation, and optimization. These practices demonstrate that mathematical reasoning operates as functional knowledge within communal cultural performance rather than solely within formal schooling. The study provides empirical evidence that large-scale festivals constitute structured mathematical environments and offers a grounded basis for integrating culturally situated contexts into mathematics education while maintaining conceptual rigor.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ethnomath

Publisher

Subject

Arts Education Mathematics Social Sciences Other

Description

Ethnomathematics Journal is an open access - international journal that provides a forum for publishing research reports, theoretical review, ideas, or innovation of mathematics education including ethnomathematics referring to the works of DAmbroisio and the colleagues. This journal is designed and ...