MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on the devotees of Señor Sto. Niño to translate their faith into action as they celebrate the Sinulog Festival on Sunday.
In his message, Marcos said that Sinulog is an avenue to pray for good health, protection and prosperity this year.
“To the millions of devotees, I urge you to translate your faith into action so that you may spread the message of hope, love and joy to others. Most importantly, always pray for spiritual strength and fortitude to overcome whatever challenges and difficulties that may lie ahead,” Marcos said.
He expressed hopes that the devotees of the Sto. Niño should work together, inspired by the bayanihan spirit, to help the administration reach the “Bagong Pilipinas” that he said “opens a better and more abundant life for all Filipinos.”
“Looking forward, I ask all of you to work hand in hand with this administration in maximizing all of the opportunities that will come before us in this New Year,” the president said.
Marcos also greeted the residents of Cebu City who are celebrating the Sinulog Festival.
This festival, touted as one of the grandest and most colorful festivities in the Philippines, is staged annually in honor of the image of the Holy Child, Señor Sto. Niño.
The annual celebration usually draws millions of spectators from across the globe, showcasing Cebu’s cultural heritage and faith.
On Saturday, the Department of Tourism reported that throngs of devotees joined the traditional Solemn Foot Procession of the Venerable Image of Señor Sto. Niño to pay homage to the image of the Sto. Niño.
They walked to the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu, to V. Rama Avenue, and then, to Osmeña Circle and returned to the basilica.
Last week, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco also joined devotees and Cebuanos in celebrating the Sinulog Festival.
In her message, Frasco, former mayor of Liloan, Cebu, recognized the province’s contributions to the country’s recent tourism recocgnitions. She said the Sinulog festival is also a way to showcase the Filipinos’ faith and devotion to Señor Sto. Niño.
“The Philippines is now the World's Leading Beach Destination, the World's Leading Dive Destination. Cebu’s contribution to these tourism recognitions are truly remarkable. A great example is this Sinulog celebration that attracts lots of tourists while we are able to show our faith and devotion to Señor Sto. Niño not just here in Cebu, but throughout the whole world,” Frasco said.
“I join all of you in thanksgiving for this wonderful celebration, the Sinulog sa Lalawigan sa Sugbo, that celebrates the unity and the strength of spirit of all Cebuanos. Love Cebu. Love the Philippines. Viva Pit Señor!” she added.