Traversing land and water

This weekend is most significant for the Catholic Church and the devotees of the Señor Santo Niño. It will be his 459th feast, but it feels more like the second celebration since all its activities returned to being in person. I still remember those dark and bleak years, where Cebu's streets were silent as ever. All were in hiding as we tried to combat a deadly virus. Thank God, those days are now over.

To me, what makes it really special is the show of devotion for the Cebuanos and all who believe in him. The fluvial procession is one of a kind as over 200 vessels will tail behind its iconic “galleon”. Devotees onboard other vessels will wave their red and yellow props, the official colors of the Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño. The gozos "Bato Balani sa Gugma” will also be played on loop as the friars will pray during the whole trip. As soon as the main ship executes a turn below the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway, it becomes a beautiful sight to see. The water splashes are likened to frolicking children who also seem to be in unison to praise the Holy Child.

According to Rev. Fr. Ion Miranda, the fluvial procession is like a reenactment of the arrival of the image to Cebu which changed the way we believe in faith. Similarly, the solemn foot procession is also an iconic event. They say it is Cebu's biggest open secret: The whole island is blessed by the miraculous Niño. The candles and the sea of people always give me goosebumps as they willingly endured erratic weather conditions.

Unlike other big fiestas in the country where its devotees scamper to get a glimpse of the image, ours is rather different. There is no need for us to even touch the ropes that guard it. All we need is a clear view, a wave, and the belief that we are included in his prayers. There is a strong faith in the belief that he has kept us close by. Thus, there is no need to undergo the most barbaric means to go near it.

The traversing of the Santo Niño is also a symbolism that his holiness will always find a way to its people. This is what we need today, the belief that there is a divine being over us. While some criticize the Cebuanos for highly revering the Santo Niño, we continue to pay homage. They do not understand the depth and the root cause of this kind of faith. Cebuanos have gone through a lot and pride themselves as one of the first few Christians in the country, we do not owe anyone an explanation. We wish the best of luck for those who will be securing the event. May the Holy Child guide everyone, regardless of how it is celebrated; on the streets or elsewhere.