Organizers of Cebu's major religious festivities have confirmed that preparations are advancing without a hitch following a successful practice run. The annual Traslacion and Walk with Mary events, key highlights leading to the Sinulog festival, are on schedule.
Dry Run Success and Schedule Adjustments
According to Rev. Fr. Jules Van Almerez, the media liaison for the Basilica del Santo Niño, the recent dry run for the Traslacion was executed flawlessly. The activity involved close coordination with the traffic management offices of Cebu City, Mandaue City, and Lapu-Lapu City. Key transfer points, such as the handover at Innodata in Subangdaku, Mandaue, proceeded on time, ensuring the images reached St. Joseph National Shrine and Birhen sa Regla as planned.
In a significant change for 2026, the traditional Traslacion will commence on Thursday, January 14, instead of the usual Friday. Father Van Almerez explained that this adjustment was made to grant devotees in Mandaue City additional time for prayer and veneration. The images of St. Joseph will remain overnight on Thursday before the send-off mass to Regla on Friday morning.
High Pilgrim Turnout and Upcoming Processions
The priest also reported an overwhelmingly positive response to the ongoing Novenario. The recent 'Walk with Jesus' event drew close to 300,000 devotees. With the approaching Sinulog celebrations, even larger crowds are expected for the 'Walk with Mary' in the coming days.
The seaborne procession is set for Saturday morning, following an overnight stay at the Birhen sa Regla. Preparations will begin at 6 a.m. from Naval Forces Central, with an estimated arrival at Pier 1 by 8 a.m. A short procession to the Pilgrim Center will then precede a 9 a.m. mass at the Basilica.
Weather Concerns and Final Preparations
While plans are firm, weather remains a variable. During a coordination meeting at Cebu City Hall on January 8, PAGASA presented the forecast for Central Visayas. There is still a slight chance of rain during the event period. Organizers are hopeful for clear skies, as any cancellation would impact the extensive preparations already in place. The community is encouraged to join in prayer for favorable conditions to ensure the safe and solemn conduct of these cherished traditions.
