Filipino devotees honor Señor Sto. Niño

CEBU, Philippines — In a story that will pull at anyone's heartstrings, a throng of Filipino devotees in both coasts of the United States take part in the Sinulog 2024 festivities on Sunday (Monday, January 22 Philippine time) as their way of showing their love and devotion to Señor Sto. Niño.

In the West Coast, a festive atmosphere prevails as US-based Pinoys pay homage to the miraculous Holy Child at the Cathedral of the Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, California.

"Karen Grace and I gave mama her Santo Niño when she migrated way back in 2007 but this is the first time she was able to dance with her Niño. Pit Senyor!" Debbie Dixie Duraliza, former The Freeman opinion and entertainment editor who was among those who participated in "Sinulog in LA 2024", shared on her Facebook page.

In the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," former Bombo Radyo reporter Daniel Quindao "Dodong" Guden  gladly shared the Filipino Catholic Community's joining the Sinulog revelry in Minnesota. They even had a search for the Sinulog Queen Minnesota State 2024 won by Ashley Pitzen from Willmar City.

After the holy mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Vic Valencia at the Guardian Angel Church in Oakdale City, the parishioners were treated to a wonderful performance by the Minnesota State Sinulog Dancers to the delight of all.

Over in the East Coast, basketball coach Bembem Alcaraz shared a heart-warming video wherein a bunch of devotees braved the snow in New York just to venerate Sto. Niño through a foot procession while dancing to the Sinulog beat amidst the freezing cold.

Still in the Big Apple, former The Freeman news writer Flor Perolina-Lungayan posted the Pinoys' solemn tribute to Sto. Niño at the St. Patrick's Church on Long Island.

Their admirable acts somehow served as a strong reminder that near or far, faith knows no bounds. They may be a thousand miles away from home but are just a heartbeat away for Sto. Niño. —  (FREEMAN)