The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu will limit attendance at its Pilgrim Center to 5,000 people and consider installing misting equipment as part of preparations for the anticipated El Niño during the January 2027 Fiesta Señor.
The Augustinian friars announced the measures on Thursday, Nov. 12, as they prepare for the 462nd edition of the monthlong religious celebration, which opens on Jan. 7.
Fr. Jules Van Almerez, the Basilica’s mass media director and media liaison, said organizers were looking at ways to protect devotees from extreme heat, particularly during outdoor religious activities.
The church is considering installing misting equipment at the open-air Pilgrim Center to help lower temperatures.
The Metropolitan Cebu Water District has also committed to establishing drinking-water stations inside the church compound where devotees can refill their containers.
Almerez urged churchgoers to bring water containers, handheld fans and sun protection.
He also advised them to remain hydrated, rest in shaded areas and immediately seek assistance at medical stations if they experience dizziness or feel unwell.
“We would wish and request our devotees, especially those with comorbidities, to attend the early morning Masses and the Masses late in the afternoon until the evening,” Almerez said.
The Basilica will also mark designated pavement areas in yellow to discourage devotees from occupying spaces needed for crowd management. Organizers likewise advised the public against bringing large bags.
Basilica rector Rev. Fr. Andres Rivera Jr., OSA, said preparations were almost complete despite the anticipated weather challenges.
“We are delighted to announce to you that we are almost 100% ready, notwithstanding the imminent threat of the other Niño, the El Niño. And we always believe that our Bato Balani sa Gugma, ang Balaang Bata sa Sugbo, or ang Sto. Niño de Cebu, will ever protect us, especially if we heed and follow his inspiration and directions,” Rivera said.
The friars said they would retain the announced schedule of religious activities for now because consultations with disaster risk reduction and management offices had not recommended adjustments.
However, organizers may modify the arrangements if temperatures become unbearable during the festivities.
The novena Masses will continue daily at the Pilgrim Center from Jan. 7 to 16, with 11 Masses scheduled each day.
The main fiesta will fall on Jan. 17, while the monthlong celebration will conclude with Adlaw sa Hubo on Jan. 22.
The anticipated El Niño has prompted organizers to prioritize the safety of devotees throughout the religious activities, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
📷 Photo by Kaiser Jan Fuentes
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