Vice Pres. Sara Duterte —PHOTO FROM INDAY SARA DUTERTE FACEBOOK PAGE
MANILA, Philippines — Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte reminded on Sunday devotees of Señor Sto. Niño to remain humble and uphold a child-like sincerity to nurture spiritual journeys.
In a statement, Duterte underscored the significance of the festival, which she said is “deeply grounded in a profound respect for the Holy Child, symbolizing the strong bond between believers and the divine.”
“Sinulog signifies a spiritual journey marked by humility and personal transformation. The ceremonial dances and lively parades symbolize the devotees’ longing to transform themselves and embrace a childlike modesty,” the vice president said,
“Above all, Sinulog serves as a powerful reminder that on our path of spiritual growth and devotion, embracing humility and a childlike sincerity is of utmost importance,” she added.
Duterte likewise said that devotees should celebrate and reflect on their “prayers and dedication to the Holy Child [to reinforce] a timeless tradition that forms the foundation of their identities as a people and a nation.”
On the other hand, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. encouraged devotees to “translate their faith into action and spread the message of hope, love, and joy” to other locals.
He also reminded devotees to be mindful of their Catholic and social obligations as part of the nation’s effort to reach “Bagong Pilipinas.”
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The observance of the Sinulog Festival is staged every January to show locals’ devotion to the Holy Child, Señor Sto. Niño.
Marcos said the event was one of the grandest and most colorful festivities in the Philippines “where Filipinos from all walks of life express their profound gratitude for the miracles, blessings, and countless deliverances bestowed upon them over the past year.”