Thousands of Sto Nino and Aranzazu devotees flocked and participated on the parade last Jan 21, 2018. A.Yango / MPIM
More or less 70 carrozas of Sto. Niño images of different names and dressed in different themes gathered at the patio of Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora de Aranzazu (DSPNSDA) yesterday, during the celebration of the 42nd Sto. Niño Festival in San Mateo.
Rev. Fr. Benny Manahan de Guzman started the celebration with a thanksgiving mass which was also attended by Rev. Fr. Larry Paz, parish priest of DSPNSDA and Mayor Cristina Diaz who also acted as the Hermana Mayor for this year’s festival.
In his homily, Fr. Benny de Guzman reminded everyone about the essence of the celebration which is to remember the childhood of Jesus and to live like a child who is not hungry for power and is humble.
The mass was followed by the most awaited procession where majority rejoiced, danced and enjoyed collecting candies and other give aways given by the participants of the procession.
The Parish Pastoral Council and the San Mateo Municipal government was grateful to more than 13,000 people who took part in the event for abiding the rules and policies which resulted to a meaningful and peaceful celebration.
The festival was ended with a grandiose fireworks display which everyone enjoyed watching.
Camille Cabal
EIC, Website Team, Media Ministry
Camille embodies a soul of a writer that’s why even though how many times she tried turning away from it, she finds herself not only coming back but also loving it. Camille finished her Bachelor’s degree major in Communication in Trinity University of Asia. She is now working as a freelance copywriter. Her desire to explore a new world is her reason for joining Media and Public Information Ministry. Being with MPIM for years taught her how passionate she can get. She believes that the best way to get things done is to put your heart into whatever you do.
