IN the stillness of the early morning on Friday, January 17, Cebu City was illuminated by the prayers and candles of over 300,000 Catholic devotees, who showed up for Walk with Mary.
The solemn procession, marking the ninth day of the Santo Niño novena, wound its way through the city, reflecting the unwavering devotion of the faithful as they journeyed towards the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu.
The penitential walk ended with a Mass at the Basilica, where diocesan priest Fr. Eligio Suico delivered a heartfelt homily, emphasizing the 460-year legacy of faith passed down through generations of Filipinos.
As the sound of hymns filled the air, Fr. Suico encouraged the faithful to treasure the stories of hope and mercy their ancestors shared, reminding them that the Santo Niño continues to guide them on their spiritual journey.
Among the thousands of participants was 25-year-old Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) employee, Jamie Naadat.
Despite working a graveyard shift, she made her way directly to the downtown area to join the foot procession. “It’s a family tradition that’s been passed down to me," she shared, “Whenever I see the image of the Santo Niño, I feel the strength to face daily challenges."
Following the Mass, the Traslacion procession took place, with the images of the Santo Niño and Mother Mary being carried from the Basilica to Mandaue City's National Shrine of Saint Joseph.
Devotees lined the route, holding their own Santo Niño images, in a moving expression of faith and solidarity.
The image journeyed next to Lapu-Lapu City, where it stayed overnight at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Rule before embarking on its fluvial procession by sea on Saturday.
The Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office estimated that 300,000 attendees participated in the religious activities, surpassing the 160,000 who took part in the Walk with Jesus event earlier.
Lt. Col. Maria Theresa Macatangay, deputy city director for operations of the Cebu City Police Office, stated that the procession unfolded peacefully and without incident.
With even larger crowds expected for Saturday’s seaborne and foot procession and Sunday’s Sinulog Grand Parade, security forces are preparing for a significant increase in participants.
Authorities are urging devotees to cooperate with security measures to ensure the smooth flow of these anticipated events.(MyTVCebu)