The Philippines ‘ most historical place turned festive during the month of January to celebrate the coming of Sto. Nino and the inauguration of Christianity in the Philippines hundreds of years ago. This jovial celebration invites millions of people. Not only because of its colorful street galas but also the progressive culture that creeps behind the celebration. Sinulog Festival, its glitz, and glamours have always been a remarkable celebration. Not just in the country but in the whole world. Dancing in the graceful beat of the musical instruments with an open heart full of hope is what makes Sinulog truly a celebration.
Birth of Christianity in the Philippines
Going back 500 years ago when Rajah Humabon and his wife Queen Juana cheerfully accepted the holy image of Santo Nino. And being baptized by Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer paved the way to the birth of Christianity in the country. After being baptized, the tribe danced in graceful rhythm to show happiness and hospitality.
The country’s grandest festival and the Mother of all festival started on January 19, 1980—40 years now. Accordingly, the word Sinulog was coined from the Cebuano word “sulog” which means “water current movement”. Which depicts the forward-backward step of Sinulog dance. Wearing Filipinana clothes, the first Sinulog dancers danced to the rhythm of the drums that manifests the current (sulog) of the Pahina River. Either raising candles or the miraculous image of the Señor Santo Niño. The first Sinulog forty years ago was a way to show strong faith in the Holy Child.
Color. Music. Fun.
Today, the festival has become the grandest vibrant and fun-filled festival in the country. And considered the Most Colorful Festival in Asia leveling the standards of the magnificent Rio Carnival.
The peak of the celebration happens during the third Sunday of January, but the festive atmosphere goes a long way. As early as the week of January, devotees of Sr. Sto. Nino starts to visit Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino where the relics, a gift from Magellan, is restored to pay tribute to the Holy Child and seek protection and guidance. Though a lot of people are visiting Basilica all year long. The number of people that visit during Sinulog is countless. Allegedly, many prayers to Sto. Nino has been granted and several lives have been changed.
Moreover, the celebration does not stop at the grounds of Basilica. The streets of Cebu City are normally full of people enjoying every second of the festival with the colors walking on the street. The grand street parade has always been the highlight of the celebration featuring the colorful creations of the Cebuanos.
The most awaited part of the street parade is the dance showdown of the contingents competing during Sinulog. Wearing their vivid costumes that mostly represent Cebuano culture, Sinulog dancers dance on the street to add tone to the festivity. Their performances showcase the different interpretations of the story of the festival. For them, their dancing is not just for the competition, it is an offering to the Holy Child, Senor Sto. Nino, for the bounty, showered unto them.
For a long time now, Sinulog showdown includes contingent outside the province to invite more people and offer them a Sinulog with a taste of diverse culture. The grand street parade is not limited to street dancing. Flamboyant floats and lively giant puppets made by local Cebuano artists are also showcased during the parade.
‘Pit Senyor’ and ‘Halad Kang Senyor Santo Nino’
The famous chants during Sinulog such as ‘Pit Senyor’ and ‘Halad Kang Senyor Santo Nino’ manifest the rich culture and strong faith of Cebuanos. The former is a shortened phrase for ‘Sangpit Senyor Santo Nino’ which means ‘Calling Senyor Sto. Nino’ while the latter means an offering to Senyor Sto. Nino. Accordingly, during the celebration, if you meet someone on the street, you must greet him ‘Pit Senyor’ as a way of wishing him bounty and protection from the Holy Child.
Street parties
Celebrating the Sinulog festival wouldn’t be complete without street parties. Showcasing good taste of music, the streets are roared with the sound of the disco during the night of the celebration. After being overwhelmed by the artistic phase of Sinulog. The night should be spent to enjoy and sway on your own taste of music. For those who want solitude, soft music and concerts are being offered in Plaza Indepencia near the Carbon Public Market.
Cebuano delicacies
On the same hand, Cebuano delicacies are one of the centers of attraction during the festival. After roaming the street, sure thing is that everyone is hungry. The famous Cebuano tasty lechon paired with hanging rice (puso) is the main dish placed on the center of the table. But then, if you are looking for delicious budget-friendly food, Siomai sa Tisa can suffice your hunger. Thus, food is not something to be worried about. There are a lot of restaurants, food stalls, and food corners that offer delicious Cebuano delicacies.
Security and safety during the celebration
Meanwhile, to observe security and safety during the celebration, police officers and safety personnel are in charge to look after every person. Each corner of the streets has safety personnel assigned to manage peace and order in that area. Days before Sinulog, people are reminded of the safety practices and are encouraged to follow protocols to avoid commotions knowing that there are a lot of people to join the festivity. Furthermore, if acts of violence and misdemeanor are committed, hotlines are available to report such action for an immediate response from the authority.
Indeed, the Philippines offers everyone an endless smile and unforgettable memories not just through its beautiful places but also through its festive celebrations that showcase rich Philippine culture. Sinulog Festival is a manifestation of Cebuano’s strong courage and faith. From the spiritual practices to cultural endeavors, Cebu is first. With all the beautiful things to be experienced in Cebu, the Sinulog festival is the most exciting and awaited one not only because of its vibrant and fun-filled festivities but because it manifests Filipino resiliency—whatever is thrown to us, we always find a room to be happy.
You must come and uncover your Sinulog memory! Or discover more Famous Festivals In The Philippines
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