Preparations for 460th Fiesta Señor underway

Local

WITH still two months to go, the new administration of the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño is already finalizing preparations for the 460th Fiesta Señor

The early preparation is to ensure that religious activities will proceed smoothly for thousands of devotees expected to gather in January 2025.

The Fiesta Señor, themed “Santo Niño: Hope of the Pilgrim Church,” aligns with the Ordinary Jubilee of 2025, which celebrates the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.”

The Basilica’s friars, led by their steering committee, have announced various activities, processional routes, and security measures to manage the influx of participants while maintaining the solemnity of the event.

The opening salvo, the Penitential Walk with Jesus, is scheduled for January 9, while the Penitential Walk with Mary will take place on January 17.

Both processions will start at 4 a.m. from Fuente Osmeña Circle to the Basilica. The Solemn Foot Procession on January 18 will follow a new route, moving from the Basilica through Osmeña Boulevard, General Maxilom Avenue, Imus Avenue, and MJ Cuenco Avenue before returning to the Basilica.

The Basilica administration has also coordinated with the Cebu City Government and the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) project team to address potential challenges.

These challenges are posed by ongoing construction along Osmeña Boulevard, a key route for the Fiesta Señor processions.

Fr. Jules Van Almerez, the Basilica’s media liaison, noted that while the ongoing CBRT project poses logistical challenges, the Church has successfully adapted to similar circumstances in the past.

He expressed confidence in their ability to work around the construction, with assistance from the City Government and CBRT management.

CBRT project manager Norvin Imbong confirmed that efforts to clear construction debris from Osmeña Boulevard will begin ahead of the Misa de Gallo on December 16.

While acknowledging that drainage work along the route might still be unfinished by then, Imbong assured that the project team would do its best to minimize disruptions.

To ensure a safe and orderly celebration, the Basilica will implement strict security measures and enforce dress codes during the Fiesta Señor.

Devotees are required to wear appropriate attire and will not be allowed to carry backpacks, although small bags will be permitted.

The Basilica will accommodate up to 5,000 devotees inside its premises during novena masses and other activities.

Large LED screens will be set up in Plaza Sugbo, Osmeña Boulevard, and D. Jakosalem Street to cater to those unable to enter.

Separate entrances will be designated for different activities, including novena masses, candle offerings, and veneration of the Santo Niño image.

The dagkotanan (candle-lighting area) will be relocated to the Colegio del Santo Niño grounds to make space for mass attendees and medical teams.

Meanwhile, MV Sto. Niño de Cebu, a ro-ro passenger vessel from Medallion Transport Inc., has been named the official galleon for this year’s celebration.

The ship can accommodate 450 passengers and will play a symbolic role in the festivities.(MyTVCebu)