The Mandaue City Council has formally requested the Archdiocese of Cebu and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu to bring back the original path for the annual fluvial parade in time for the 2027 Fiesta Señor celebrations.
Council Unanimously Backs Appeal from Disappointed Devotees
This appeal came in the form of a unanimously approved floor resolution on January 19, 2026, just days after the 461st Fiesta Señor. The move was a direct response to complaints from many Mandaue City residents who were unable to get a clear view of the sacred images during the seaborne procession held on January 16, 2026.
Councilor Carlo Fortuna explained that countless devotees had made significant efforts to participate, waking up as early as 2 a.m. or 3 a.m. to secure prime viewing spots along bridges, shorelines, and Mandaue Bay. Their devotion turned to disappointment when the galleon carrying the images of the Sto. Niño de Cebu, St. Joseph, and Our Lady of Guadalupe did not pass near the city's designated viewing decks.
"This fluvial procession is something the people of Mandaue truly wait for. Many of them prepared early just to see the image of Señor Santo Niño, but it did not pass by, which was very disappointing," Fortuna stated.
Request for the 2027 Celebration and a Proposed Solution
The Council's resolution specifically asks church authorities to consider reinstating the old procession route for the 2027 Sinulog and Fiesta Señor. This traditional path would allow the vessel to pass under the bridge and reach areas closer to the Fernando Bridge, making it visible to Mandaue spectators.
Fortuna also proposed a practical solution: using a smaller galleon, similar to those employed in past celebrations. He argued this could enable the vessel to navigate closer to the faithful gathered along the shore without creating safety hazards.
"This is part of devotion, not just watching. People want to see Señor Santo Niño pass by, to sing and pray as an expression of faith," he emphasized.
Basilica Cites Safety as Reason for Route Change
In response to the growing discussion, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu clarified that the current route was determined primarily by safety and security concerns.
Reverend Father Jules Van Almerez, OSA, the Basilica's media liaison, explained that a pre-procession tabletop exercise with the Philippine Coast Guard revealed the waters near the Mandaue City viewing decks were too shallow. This was a major issue because the Lite Ferry 10, used this year, is the largest galleon ever deployed for the event, making tight maneuvers risky.
"The decision was primarily made to ensure the safety of the galleon and its passengers," Fr. Almerez said. He also corrected misinformation, noting that the galleon has not passed under the first bridge since 2018 due to these ongoing safety evaluations.
The Council remains hopeful. Councilor Kevin Cabahug, who supported the resolution, stressed that the core issue is enabling meaningful expressions of faith. "What matters is that people can see the image and express their faith and beliefs in Señor Santo Niño. That, for me, is the true spirit of the celebration," Cabahug said. The Council now awaits the Archdiocese's consideration of their heartfelt appeal.
