‘Hear Mass before joining Dinagyang religious sadsad’

ILOILO City – Dinagyang Festival revelers are encouraged to attend the 5:30 p.m. Mass at the San Jose de Placer Church before participating in the religious sadsad (worship dance) at 7 p.m. this Saturday evening in honor of the Santo Niño (Child Jesus).

Hearing the Mass, which will be presided over by Jaro Archbishop Jose Romeo Lazo, would enhance the experience of participating in the religious sadsad, said Lilibeth Hogar, president of the Cofradia del Sto. Niño de Cebu-Iloilo City Chapter.

Hogar also said everyone is welcome to join the sadsad and that there are security measures in place in coordination with the Philippine National Police.

“We hope for a peaceful gathering, even in crowded situations, as our purpose is to pray and make requests to the Senior Santo Niño,” she stressed.

Ambulances and first aid teams will be stationed around the San Jose de Placer Church, added Hogar, citing the expected large turnout of devotees.

Congestion could cause discomfort, she explained.

Dinagyang had its early beginnings in 1968. A replica of the image of Señor Santo Niño was brought from Cebu City to the San Jose de Placer Church by Fr. Suplico Ebderes, OSA with a delegation of Cofradia del Sto. Niño Cebu members.

The image, welcomed by the Ilonggos, sparked spontaneous street dancing to the sound of drums.

The welcome was led by then parish priest of San Jose de Placer Church, Fr. Ambrosio Galindez,

OSA, then Mayor Renerio Ticao, and the devotees of the Sto. Niño in Iloilo City.

The image was brought to San Jose de Placer Church and enshrined there up to this time, where a novena in His honor is held every Friday.

Now known for its elaborate choreography and vibrant costumes, the Dinagyang Festival has been named the “best tourism event” for three consecutive times – 2006, 2007 and 2008 – by the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines./