More than 1,000 devotees joined the first Libad Apu Sto. Cristo in Lubao, Pampanga, taking part in a fluvial procession along the Porac-Gumain River.
At least 30 large boats sailed a roughly two-kilometer route from Bamboo Hub to Dalan Bapor with the image of Apu Sto. Cristo carried on one of the boats and accompanied by worshippers.
As part of the celebration, participants released doves into the air and fingerlings into the river, symbolizing peace and a bountiful life for communities living nearby.
More than 160 personnel from various agencies, including the police, disaster response units, the Philippine Coast Guard, and volunteers, were deployed to ensure safety and order during the event.
Residents also noted active river life during the procession, with fish seen jumping as the parade passed through.
