By Juliane Judilla
Devotees gathered in the thousands on Friday, January 24, for the annual fluvial and solemn procession in honor of Señor Santo Niño de Cebu.
The event began at Lapuz Wharf, with the image of Sto. Niño carried through the Guimaras Strait and along the Iloilo River before docking at Muelle Loney Street.
Nineteen water assets participated in the procession, including two tugboats, eight fiber vessels, five rubber boats, three Philippine Coast Guard vessels, and one from the Philippine National Police Maritime Group.
Approximately 5,000 devotees joined the foot procession, starting at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand and proceeding along Iznart, Delgado, and Mabini Streets in Iloilo City Proper. The parade concluded at San Jose Placer Parish Church.
Little boys dressed in gold, red, and white garments emulated the Child Jesus, some carrying replicas of the Sto. Niño during the procession.
One devotee, who requested anonymity, shared how her devotion grew stronger after purchasing a charred Sto. Niño replica for five pesos.
The original statue was destroyed in a neighborhood fire four years ago, but she believes acquiring the burned replica deepened her faith and connection to the Holy Child.
“It feels like my faith has become stronger, and ever since I got it, it feels like I’m really being blessed,” she said.
The fluvial and solemn procession, a major religious event in Iloilo, brings together devotees in prayer and celebration.
The fluvial parade carries the Sto. Niño along the river, followed by a foot procession to San Jose Placer Parish Church, highlighting faith and devotion to the Holy Child.
