PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. yesterday urged Sto. Niño devotees to work with government in maximizing opportunities and to remain united to help spur the socio-economic growth and further develop the thriving industries.
In a message during the annual Sinulog Festival in Cebu City, which is a show of devotion to the Sto. Niño, the President said, “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. 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,” he said.
Marcos also said that, as they are guided by their faith and inspired by the bayanihan spirit, they should remain conscious of their Catholic and social obligations to reach the shared destiny towards the “Bagong Pilipinas that opens a better and more abundant life for all Filipinos.”
The Sinulog Festival is held every third Sunday of January in Cebu City to show the devotees’ devotion to the Holy Child, Santo Niño. It involves a series of dances that dramatize the coming of the Spaniards in 1521 and the presentation of the Santo Niño to the Filipinos.
The President described the event as one of the grandest and most colorful festivities in the Philippines, during which “patrons from all walks of life express their profound gratitude for the miracles, blessings, and countless deliverances bestowed upon them over the past year.”
Marcos said the event is also a time to pray for good health, protection, and prosperity in the year ahead.
‘SPIRITUAL JOURNEY’
Vice President Sara Duterte yesterday told Sto. Niño devotees that the Sinulog Festival signifies a “spiritual journey marked by humility and personal transformation.”
“Above all, Sinulog serves as a powerful reminder that on our path of spiritual growth and devotion, embracing humility and a childlike sincerity is of utmost importance,” she said in a statement.
The Vice President said the event holds a special place in the hearts of every Cebuano “as one of the country’s most significant religious and secular gatherings.”
“The festival’s roots are deeply grounded in a profound respect for the Holy Child, symbolizing the strong bond between believers and the divine. At its core, Sinulog carries a deep reverence for the Holy Child, the Sto. Nino,” Duterte said.
The Vice President also urged devotees “to continue our journey to become devoted followers of God, nurturing our spirituality in every way.”
She said devotees should cherish the festival as a “reflection of our prayers and dedication to the Holy Child, reinforcing a timeless tradition that forms the foundation of our identity as a people and a nation.”
“May this vibrant celebration inspire us to strive for a future where our enduring traditions and shared convictions stand as pillars of pride and fortitude. May we be blessed with stronger bonds that unite us as we work together for a more prosperous Philippines,” she said.
ATI-ATIHAN FESTIVAL
The Vice President also greeted the people of Kalibo, Aklan as they celebrated the Ati-Atihan Festival yesterday.
Duterte said Ati-Atihan is “not just about the vibrant colors, music, and dance.”
“It is, more importantly, a celebration of faith, hope, and gratitude. It represents our profound connection with the divine and our dedication to living a life of humility, joy, and communal spirit,” she said.
The Vice President added: “It is a reflection of the rich culture of our kababayans in Kalibo, Aklan, capturing both the essence of the people and their cultural heritage. This is why it is widely recognized as the Mother of all Festivals in the Philippines.”
“As we participate in this year’s celebration, may its true essence infuse us with even more energy, grounded in our nation’s history and character, embodying resilience in the face of challenges and unity amidst diversity,” she said. — With Wendell Vigilia
