CEBU CITY- In a vibrant display of faith, thousands of Catholics in Cebu City joined the annual procession in honor of Sr. Sto. Niño on Saturday. The event, marked by a foot procession, drew a significant crowd despite the challenging heat.
According to the Philippines News Agency, Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma led the blessing of the Holy Child's miraculous image, as devotees filled the streets and gathered around the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño. The procession followed a designated route starting from Osmeña Boulevard, passing through various streets including Alcantara St., V. Rama Ave., B. Rodriguez St., and returning to Osmeña Boulevard, culminating at the Basilica.
The event saw notable religious figures in attendance. Msgr. Jan Thomas Limchua, the Vatican's papal chaplain, joined two bishops, monsignors, and Augustinian friars, headed by Basilica rector Fr. Nelson Zerda. Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Midyphil Billones led the Visperas Mass at 5:30 p.m., an integral part of the day's religious activities.
Security was a primary concern, with substantial efforts to ensure the safety of the participants. Lt. Col. Donald Narra, operations officer of the 701 Ready Reserve Battalion, reported the deployment of over 100 reservists and approximately 400 Reserve Officers' Training Corps cadets. They assisted the police in securing both the procession route and the carroza carrying the Sto. Niño image. Additionally, students from the University of the Visayas' Criminal Justice program were involved in security measures, particularly near the Sto. Niño's carroza.
The Visayas Command released a statement detailing the deployment of 11 Navy assets from the Naval Forces Central. These assets were positioned off the Mactan Channel to secure the fluvial procession that preceded the foot procession.
The celebrations are set to conclude with the Sinulog grand parade on Sunday afternoon, a fitting end to the events surrounding the Sto. Niño feast in Cebu City.