The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City has reminded devotees and visitors to wear the proper attire when visiting the church.

Thousands visit the Basilica during the Fiesta Señor, the religious component of the Sinulog Festival, especially those attending the daily Novena Masses.

In a statement on Saturday, January 10, 2026, Fr. Jules Van Almerez, OSA, the Basilica’s media liaison officer, said those visiting the Basilica must honor the home of the Holy Child “with the dignity it deserves.”

“Even if some do not follow the dress code, it does not mean we should follow their example. We must remain humble and disciplined in our own conduct inside the church,” he said.

His statement in full:

“Peace be with you!

As we celebrate these Novenario days, we are deeply moved by the thousands of pilgrims who fill our Basilica.

We wish to address the concerns regarding the observance of our dress code with these points:

  • We sincerely thank the vast majority of our devotees for your vigilance. By following the dress code, you show your love for the Holy Child and maintain the solemnity of our prayers.
  • The Basilica is a house of prayer for everyone. We welcome all who come to honor the Señor Santo Niño, regardless of who they are.
  • We remind the faithful that our standards of reverence do not change based on the actions of others. Even if some do not follow the dress code, it does not mean we should follow their example. We must remain humble and disciplined in our own conduct inside the church.

Our theme, "In Santo Niño We Are One," calls us to be united in respect for our traditions and for one another. Let us keep our eyes on the Holy Child and honor His home with the dignity it deserves.

The Novena Masses at the Basilica for the Fiesta Señor started on January 8, 2026. The feast day is on January 18, which is also the day of the Sinulog Grand Parade.

Considered as improper attire at the Basilica are the following:

  • Spaghetti straps/tube/tank tops
  • Sleeveless/plunging necklines
  • Racerbacks/Barebacks
  • Sando/Anything without sleeves
  • Shawl
  • Short skirts/Crop tops
  • Shorts of any kind
  • Ripped jeans
  • Caps/Bucket hat inside the church
  • See through clothes

(Report by John Kim Bote, dySS Super Radyo Cebu)