Danao City fluvial procession proceeds despite weather

CEBU, Philippines — Despite overcast skies and rolling waves, faith and devotion prevailed as Catholic devotees took part in the fluvial procession in Danao City honoring the Señor Santo Niño.

From departure to arrival at the Danao City Port, the fluvial procession took almost two hours with the Señor Santo Niño de Cebu on board the MV SuperJoy of Roble Shipping Lines, the officially-designated galleon for the 2026 fluvial procession.

The activity was spearheaded by the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish in Danao City in close coordination with the Danao City Government.

Support also came from coastal barangays, national government agencies, private shipping partners, and local fishermen.

Organizers said the procession reflected the strong sense of unity in the Catholic community, as devotees participated from various points at sea, in churches, along streets, and on the shoreline joining in prayer despite the weather.

Church and city officials thanked all participants and partners whose prayers, presence, and cooperation contributed to the celebration.

As preparations unfolded at the port, the send-off Mass was simultaneously held at the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish. The faithful later gathered aboard the vessel for a Mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Lyndon Ruiz.

The fluvial activity forms part of Danao City’s traditional Fiesta Señor celebration, which is annually observed after the Sinulog Festival in Cebu City, reaffirming the city’s enduring devotion to the Holy Child.

Meanwhile, as part of the broader pilgrimage activities for the Fiesta Señor 2026, the image of Our Lady of Mount Carmel also completed the Annual Penitential Walk with Mary, led by Ruiz and joined by devoted faithful.

The solemn procession began at the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish, passed through Beatriz D. Durano Street, turned onto Mabini Street, and returned to Mano Amon Grounds.

Following the prayerful walk, the Marian image safely returned to the parish and was welcomed with reverent silence and thanksgiving. — (FREEMAN)