METRO Cebu is reeling from the destruction of super typhoon Odette (international name: Rai) that made landfall about a month ago, days before Christmas, and right in the middle of a pandemic.
Things haven’t been easy. However, faith in the Lord and in the goodness of men remain a constant theme in the hearts of many.
Approaching the Sinulog weekend this year, one can feel a more somber celebration of the Mother of Festivals in the Philippines. In previous years, the streets would be packed with millions of devotees and merrymakers. Now the same roads where gigantic floats were paraded would be missing the familiar and timeless Sinulog drumbeat and the unmistakable atmosphere of celebration.
Faith, however, is the evidence of things unseen. In this case, the essence of Sinulog lives on.
Today, in a generation when pictures have never been more important, depictions and images of the Holy Child continue to be inspirations of beauty and hope among the weary. Malls around Cebu City have put up various Sinulog-themed exhibits that will run until the end of the month, hoping that the public remember, appreciate and observe an important holiday in our local culture.
In Ayala Center Cebu, the “Sto. Niño Devotional Display” at The Gallery marks its 20th year in displaying various images and figures of the Holy Child. Mall-goers enjoy taking their time going through the extensive collection shared by devotees.
In terms of grace and fashion, an exhibit was also set up which showcased the stunning pieces modeled by Cebuana beauty titleholders. Dubbed “Sinulog and Beyond,” the fashion exhibit features pieces designed by Axel Que. One of the highlights is the design worn by Miss Universe Philippines Bea Gomez herself.
The beauty continues with the “Sinulog Festival Queen Costume Exhibit” at the mall’s Activity Center. Here, one can see and appreciate the glamorous costumes worn by the Sinulog Festival Queens of Cebu.
At SM Seaside City Cebu, the “Santo Niño: Gasa sa Katawhang Pilipinhon” art exhibit pays homage to the Lord Jesus Christ with several interpretations of the Holy Child. The creativity goes on with another exhibit dubbed “Paglaum Art Display,” as this art exhibition features works from artists around the country. The exhibit is done for the benefit of the survivors of typhoon Odette.
Over at SM City Cebu, at The Northwing Atrium, costumes of Festival Queens created by some of the province’s talented designers are on display. Revel at the inspired work of Cebu’s creatives, done in honor of the Señor Sto. Niño.