Sinulog Festival 2025: Cebu’s Streets Come Alive with ‘Pit Senyor!’
Cebu City was filled with energy and color on Sunday as the Sinulog Festival 2025 hosted its grand street parade, one of the Philippines’ most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals. Along Osmeña Boulevard and at the Cebu City Sports Center, thousands gathered to witness this much-anticipated annual event, featuring 45 dancing contingents and lively performances.
Grand Parade Highlights
The festival brought together people from all walks of life, filling the streets with the echoes of “Pit Senyor!”—a chant honoring Señor Sto. Niño. Performers from Cebu and other provinces, as well as international groups, showcased their artistry through traditional and modern dances to the rhythm of beating drums.
Key highlights included:
- 45 contingents, including 13 from outside Cebu and a special group from South Korea.
- 61 floats, 10 higantes (giant paper-mâché figures), and 14 puppeteers.
- Guest performances by Bacolod’s Masskara Festival.
Dancing Contingents and Competitions
Participants competed in two categories: Free Interpretation and Sinulog-based, with grand winners receiving ₱3 million each. Prizes for the runners-up include:
- ₱2 million for the first runners-up
- ₱1.5 million for the second runners-up
Contingents hailed from different parts of the Philippines, including:
- Antipolo
- Albay
- Kidapawan City, Cotabato
- Sarangani Province
- Dinagat Islands
- Dipolog City
- Davao Occidental
- Zamboanga City
- Siargao
- Bais City and Dumaguete City
International participation was highlighted by South Korea’s dance group, showcasing their unique take on the festival spirit.
Cultural Significance
Sinulog Festival, rooted in honoring Señor Sto. Niño, remains a symbol of Cebu’s deep devotion and cultural pride. This year’s festivities stood out with a blend of traditional Filipino rituals and global influences, attracting tourists and locals alike.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Event details and outcomes are based on available updates. For official announcements, refer to the Cebu City government and Sinulog organizers.
