CEBU CITY – The Fiesta Señor 2025 commenced with a significant turnout as approximately 160,000 devotees participated in the traditional ‘Walk with Jesus’ procession at dawn on Thursday. The event, which marks the start of the celebrations for Señor Santo Niño de Cebu, saw participants gather at Fuente Osmeña Rotunda and proceed along Osmeña Boulevard to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
Despite light rain, the streets were illuminated by the fervor of the devotees as they escorted the sacred image of Santo Niño to the Basilica for the opening Mass of the 460th Fiesta Señor. The procession coincided with the Traslacion of Jesus Nazareno in Manila, adding to the day’s religious significance.
Col. Antonieto Cañete, the director of the Cebu City police, reported a smooth procession with no incidents, attributing the success to thorough preparations by the city government and the presence of over 3,000 personnel from various security forces.
The first novena mass was celebrated at the Basilica, led by Fr. Andres Rivera Jr., the rector. In his homily, Rivera highlighted two key reflections for the devotees: the importance of dressing modestly in church and the need to reject unauthorized depictions of Santo Niño. He emphasized that the traditional image of Santo Niño, originally a gift from Ferdinand Magellan, should be in red, as per church guidelines.
Rivera also cautioned against alternative portrayals of Santo Niño, such as those in green, police uniforms, or as ‘Santo Niño Palaboy’ with minimal clothing. Despite these reminders, local stores continue to offer various unapproved versions of the Santo Niño, showcasing the diverse ways in which the image is revered.