Ilonggos demonstrated anew their warm devotion to the Señor Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus) during the fluvial parade and solemn foot procession on Friday, January 24, 2025.

The image of the Santo Niño is the center of the fluvial procession that is one of the religious activities in line with the celebration of Dinagyang Festival 2025.

The image of the Santo Niño was taken on board a ship of the Philippine Coast Guard at the Fastcraft Terminal in Lapuz Wharf. The ship cruised on Guimaras Strait, and on to the Iloilo River heading for Muelle Loney.

Devotees, ages 18 years old to 50 years old, were allowed to join the fluvial procession.

Mediatrix Arevalo, a devotee, brought her image of the Santo Niño.

She was with her grandchild and a neighbor.

“Panata talaga namin bawat taon kaya binihisan ko ang aking apo,” Mediatrix said.

Mediatrix meant that she dressed up her grandchild with habiliment resembling that of the image. 

Shiela Garcia, another devotee, said that because of her strong faith in the Holy Child Jesus, it became possible for her to bear a child.

In fact, she has two sons that she and her husband prayed for earnestly.

“Eleven years na wala kaming anak. Ipinagdasal talaga namin,” Sheila said.

As for Gina Castor, she has always petitioned for good health and divine intervention in her endeavors, especially in business.

“Mas mabuting mag-join upang i-bless ka pa ni Niño,” Gina said.

The Señor Santo Niño de Cebu was met with other versions of the images, brought by devotees, the moment the image reached Muelle Loney.

Ships honked simultaneously to mark participation to the ritual.

Immediately after the fluvial parade, a solemn foot procession followed going to San Jose Placer Church.