CEBU CITY – The stretch of Osmeña Boulevard here turned into a sea of devotees when thousands of people joined the Walk with Jesus early Thursday morning, Jan. 9.
THOUSANDS of devotees swarm Osmeña Boulevard in Cebu City during the Walk with Jesus that signaled the start of a series of religious activities for the 460th Fiesta Señor. (Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu)
The procession kicked off the series of religious activities for the 460th Fiesta Señor.
The foot procession still drew at least 160,000 people amid a light drizzle based on the estimate of the Cebu City Police Office and Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
Police Lt. Col. Maria Theresa Macatangay, deputy city director for operations of the CCPO, said no untoward incidents were reported throughout the procession.
At least 1,000 uniformed personnel and force multipliers were deployed to secure the activity that started at 3 a.m. at Fuente Osmeña Circle.
“There is always room for improvement, and in every event, we always find ways to improve on how we can beef up our security especially in the entire processional route,” Macatangay said.
The procession ended at around 5 a.m. at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu where thousands of devotees waited for a Mass at the church’s Pilgrim Center.
The Fiesta Señor will be held on Jan. 19 that coincides with the Sinulog Festival. Fiesta Señor focuses on the religious celebration while the Sinulog is highlighted by cultural activities. Both events honor the Child Jesus.
Police Brig. Gen. Dionisio Bartolome, officer-in-charge of the Police Regional Office-Central Visayas, commended security forces for ensuring the peaceful conduct of the event.
“It was a very successful event. Our PRO-7 OIC commends our security personnel, especially the task group for a job well done,” said Police Lt. Col. Janette Rafter, spokesperson of Bartolome.
For those attending the nine-day novena Masses, Rev. Fr. Jules Van Almerez, Basilica media liaison, advised the devotees to follow guidelines to avoid hassles. Devotees were urged to observe proper dress code and avoid bringing large bags.