Filipino Catholics hail ‘Viva Pit Señor!’ to celebrate festival

A large group of Filipino Catholics gathered at the Sai Van Lake Square to celebrate the region’s annual cultural and religious festival that celebrates Santo Niño – the baby Jesus.

Held every third Sunday of January, the Sinulog Festival is one of the Philippine’s grandest festivals, where participants perform in colorful and vibrant costumes.

In Cebu, the festivities last for nine days, commencing with a mass followed by a series of religious activities.

Yesterday, the Santo Niño de Cebu in Macau Association organized its 19th edition, featuring a total of six groups parading from the square to Nam Van, dancing to the beat of the drums.

The festival is marked by a dance ritual that represents the current – a forward and backward motion.

While dancing, participants shout petitions and thanksgivings to the Santo Niño such as “Viva Pit Señor! Señor Santo Niño!”

According to the association’s president, Violeta Duran, the number of performing groups last year was slightly higher by two groups due to insufficient time for preparation by some migrant groups.

“It’s the biggest activity for the Filipinos here and and we’ve united to make this happen. We also feel like we’re in the Philippines for this event, even just for a short while as it lessens the homesickness,” said Duran.

Since the festival will hold its 20th edition next year, Duran hinted that they are set to prepare special performances and activities for its 20th year.

Meanwhile, explaining the significance of the festival, Fr Andy Vergara said that the annual event serves as a reminder of the Catholic devotees’ faith.

“There are a lot of miraculous works that they feel [are] coming from Santo Niño, so because of their gratitude, they hold a Sinulog Festival to give thanks to the Lord for the miracles they had done to the people,” said the priest who is a part of the Pastoral Care for Filipino Migrants.

“The dancing is a ritual dance that praises and glorifies Santo Niño, who is the child Jesus,” he added.

Before the festival commenced, a mass – which, according to the priest, was attended by some 700 Filipino residents was held at St. Lawrence’s Church, followed by a parade and a dance competition.

“I’m happy and glad to be here with the Filipinos because I can see how they are devoted to the Santo Niño. It really evokes in them the faith and trust in the Lord,” said the priest.

“This event […] truly brings them closer to God and nourishes their faith. They are being reminded of their devotion and being nourished in their faith as they […] want to continue what they started in the Philippines,” he added.

According to Fr Vergara, the Catholic community in the SAR has recorded growth, noting that the churches have been adding more masses to accommodate more devotees.