Pit Señor!

Today we celebrate both the high point of the Fiesta Señor and the Sinulog celebrations.

We didn’t get here without any challenges as it would seem that each edition of the Sinulog activities is never without its controversies. For one the venue of the Grand Parade or the Ritual Showdown is always contested. There will always be political leaders who want it held in one place or the other.

Speaking of politics, there is also the issue of whom to invite to share in our celebration. The cream of the crop of politicians always want to be where the crowd is, especially whenever elections are drawing near. And right now the biggest crowd there is is gathering for the Sinulog celebrations.

We always wonder what business they have here; whether it’s to be seen or to really show their respect or even their devotion to our culture.

Speaking of business, this is also the time when businesses make a killing. Hotels are usually booked, restaurants and other places where people gather to party and celebrate are full. Even those who just sell barbecue or trinkets by the side of the road expect to make profits. It’s a good reason to celebrate the Sinulog season.

Speaking of celebration, those who are here to party will do so, sometimes to excess. Their activities tend to make more impact on visitors than the solemn events.

As mentioned in an earlier editorial, all these tend to distract us from what really matters; the worshiping and adoration of the Holy Child. Everything in the background is just noise. While we cannot deny that this “noise” has won a place for Cebu in the national as well as the world stage it is secondary in importance to the religious significance of this event.

With that said, after we have fulfilled our religious obligations it does not hurt to live it up a little. This is Cebu after all.

Pit Señor!