The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu (BMSN) has announced significant schedule modifications for the upcoming 461st Fiesta Señor celebration in January 2026, aiming to provide devotees with extended time for spiritual reflection and participation.
Revised Schedule for Enhanced Devotion
Major changes include moving the Walk with Mary from Friday to Thursday, January 15, 2026. Following this procession, the image of Santo Niño will travel to St. Joseph National Shrine in Mandaue City for an overnight stay as part of the Translacion ceremony.
On Friday, January 16, the sacred image will journey to Nuestra Señora de Regla Shrine in Lapu-Lapu City for its second overnight stay. The schedule continues with the fluvial procession early morning on Saturday, January 17, followed by the Solemn Procession in the afternoon and the Visperas Mass in the evening.
Purpose Behind the Changes
According to Fr. Jules Van Villa Almerez, OSA, the official spokesperson for BMSN, these adjustments were implemented to allow devotees from Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and surrounding areas more substantial time for contemplation and active participation in the religious events.
"The changes aim to maintain order and provide longer periods for devotees to approach and venerate the image," explained Fr. Almerez. He noted that in previous years, many devotees were unable to get close to or kiss the image due to limited time and overcrowding.
Complete Fiesta Señor Timeline
The Pre-Fiesta Señor Activities will commence on December 27, 2025, setting the stage for the main celebrations. The Opening Salvo and novena masses will run from January 8 to January 16, 2026.
The main feast day will be celebrated on January 18, 2026, under the unifying theme "In Sto. Niño We Are One." The official Galleon for the festivities will be M/V Lite Ferry Ten from Lite Shipping Corporation.
This year's Hermano and Hermana Mayores will be Edgar Mary Sarmiento and his wife Jennifer Helen Weigel Sarmiento, who will play key roles in the celebrations.
Enhanced Security Measures
The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) and other security agencies will implement comprehensive safety protocols from January 8 until January 23, which marks the Adlaw sa Hubo.
Security restrictions include a ban on large backpacks, with authorities encouraging the use of transparent bags instead. Devotees are also prohibited from bringing expensive jewelry, wallets, and large items to prevent theft incidents.
Regarding signal jammers, the Basilica is still awaiting recommendations from the Task Force Security before making final decisions on their deployment during the festivities.
