Thousands of devotees flocked to Pandacan, Manila on Jan. 18, to take part in the Sto. Niño de Pandacan "Buling Buling" Festival, celebrating the Feast of the Child Jesus.
With the theme "Sto. Niño de Pandacan: Batis ng Himala Tungo sa Panibagong Paglalakbay at Pag-asa" (Sto. Niño de Pandacan: Source of Miracles Toward New Journeys and Hope), the festival featured a rich blend of religious and cultural events, including a solemn Holy Mass, a grand procession, street parades, and traditional performances that captivated attendees throughout the day.
The celebration began with a Holy Mass attended by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan, marking the spiritual significance of the occasion.
Following the mass, a grand procession led by the revered Sto. Niño image wound its way through the streets of Pandacan, drawing hundreds of parishioners who participated in the prayerful and joyful march.
The festival also highlighted the cultural heritage of Pandacan with street parades showcasing local dances, food stalls offering traditional Filipino fare, and various community programs that fostered a sense of unity and pride in the area.
To ensure the safety and security of the thousands of participants, the Manila Police District (MPD) deployed 400 personnel across the area, maintaining peace and order throughout the celebration.
The Sto. Niño de Pandacan “Buling Buling” Festival has become an eagerly anticipated annual event, celebrating both the deep religious devotion of the community and the rich cultural traditions.