The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu has officially designated the MV Lite Ferry Ten as the principal vessel for the upcoming seaborne procession on January 17, 2026. This key event is a highlight of the 461st celebration of the Fiesta Señor.
A Sacred Cargo for a Historic Voyage
The roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ship, owned by Lite Shipping Corporation, will have the solemn duty of transporting the sacred images of the Sagrada Familia. Its precious cargo will include the revered figures of the Señor Santo Niño, the Birhen sa Guadalupe, and San Jose. The vessel, which was built in 2024 and currently operates on various domestic routes, is now preparing for this special religious assignment.
Ensuring Safety and Order for the Faithful
In preparation for the major event, a crucial dry run was conducted on Thursday, January 9, 2026. The Basilica organized this rehearsal with the assistance of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Naval Forces Central command. The primary objectives of the dry run were clear:
- To guarantee the safety of all participants and observers.
- To ensure tight security throughout the maritime event.
- To establish perfect order and smooth execution of the procession.
This collaborative effort between religious and military authorities underscores the importance and scale of the Fiesta Señor celebrations.
A Tradition Steeped in Faith and History
The selection of the MV Lite Ferry Ten as the official "galleon" continues a long-standing tradition of seaborne processions in Cebu. This annual event draws hundreds of thousands of devotees to the city's shores and waterways, making it one of the most significant religious gatherings in the Philippines. The 2026 celebration marks another milestone, honoring the child Jesus, Santo Niño, whose image is at the heart of Cebuano and Filipino Catholic devotion.
With the safety dry run now complete, organizers and the faithful alike look forward with anticipation to a solemn, secure, and orderly procession on January 17, 2026, as part of the 461st Fiesta Señor.
