CEBU, Philippines - The Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Michael the Archangel Parish of Argao has introduced a new attraction in the town—their own version of the “Sugat,” or the welcoming of the risen Jesus Christ after he died on the cross. On Easter Sunday, local talents presented their own “Sugat sa Argao” through a musical play at the newly inaugurated President Diosdado Macapagal Sports and Cultural Center where thousands of faithful gathered to witness the event. The P20-million new coliseum has 4,000 seating capacity and was inaugurated by President Gloria Arroyo and Press Secretary Cerge Remonde just recently.Aside from the spectacular performance of the stage actors and actresses, the audience was also amazed by the breath-taking painting as backdrop and the real landscape.
Sing-a-long master and stage actor Cerj Michael impressed the crowd when he sang “Who am I” as part of his portrayal of the role of Jesus Christ.
“It is very successful,” said Aljin Abaquita, the director of the annual religious event in the town. Before the musical play was presented, the crowd was also made aware of the life story of Blessed Pedro Calungsod, a young Cebuano martyr who was killed while doing missionary work in Marianas.
Argao parish priest Monsignor Jose Montecillo said that every year, an evaluation is made after each “Sugat sa Argao” if it had helped the people foster their faith and devotion. — Johanna T. Natavio/WAB (THE FREEMAN)