January 19, 2025 – Prague Sinulog 2025 became a remarkable gathering for Filipinos from across the Czech Republic and it’s neighboring European countries, uniting in a celebration of faith, culture, and community.
Hosted at the historic St. Thomas Church in Prague, this year’s festival was a resounding success, radiating the spirit of Filipino unity and devotion to the Sto. Niño (Infant Jesus). The event beautifully showcased the richness of Filipino heritage, blending tradition and faith in a vibrant and heartfelt celebration.
It’s often said, “Kahit saan ka magpunta, may Pilipino” (wherever you go, there’s always a Filipino), and this rang especially true in the Czech Republic. Adding to the celebration, the Filipino Catholic Community from Dresden, Germany, attended and lent their wholehearted support to the Feast of the Infant Jesus.
Organized by the Cofradia del Santo Niño de Cebu – Prague Chapter, led by Ms. Marissa V. Meñez, President, and Ms. Lea Colegado-Tyman, Secretary and Chairperson of Sinulog 2025, along with the dedicated Cofradia officers and members, the event stood as a testament to the Filipino spirit of unity and cooperation. It demonstrated that no matter where we are in the world, success is always within reach when we support one another.
The celebration began with a solemn procession honoring the Infant Jesus. Members of Triskelion International reverently carried the Carriage of Señor Santo Niño, joined by parish priests, altar servers, lectors, organizers, performers, and guests. The procession was followed by a Eucharistic Mass, celebrated by His Excellency, Most Reverend Jude Thaddeus Okolo, marking the spiritual heart of the event.
In his homily, Archbishop Okolo reflected on the virtues of the Child Jesus, his innocence, trust, and love, and how these qualities inspire us in our daily lives. He also shared a light-hearted anecdote about how, during his time in Lucerne, Switzerland, he joked about only attending a parish dinner if Filipinos were present, highlighting the warm, welcoming nature of Filipinos everywhere.
The mass concluded with the Final Blessing, marking the beginning of the Sinulog Festival. The festivities opened with a captivating video presentation detailing the origins of the Sinulog tradition in Cebu.
A Brief History of Sinulog
After the successful introduction of Christianity in the Philippines, it is said that Ferdinand Magellan gifted the Queen of Cebu an image of the Santo Niño (the Infant Jesus) during her baptism into the Christian faith. As a symbol of her newfound devotion, she danced with the image of the Infant Jesus. This act inspired the Cebuanos to embrace the tradition, giving rise to what is now known as the Sinulog.
Following the presentation, short messages from distinguished guests were delivered. Among them was the Philippine Ambassador to the Czech Republic, His Excellency Eduardo Meñez, who highlighted the growing Filipino community in the country, now numbering over 10,000 and steadily increasing. In his speech, he encouraged the community to emulate the virtues of the Santo Niño, fostering unity and mutual trust among Filipinos. He also teased about the upcoming Barrio Fiesta for all Filipinos in the Czech Republic.
Reverend Father William S. Faix, OSA, shared a heartfelt story of gratitude. He recounted how a Filipino nurse knelt in prayer for the repose of his mother’s soul, a gesture that exemplified the selfless service Filipinos bring to the world. “I just want to say, if the Filipinos will stay in the Philippines, we will have a very poor world. God bless you and thank you for your service and for your love.“ he remarked with deep appreciation.
“I just want to say, if the Filipinos will stay in the Philippines, we will have a very poor world. God bless you and thank you for your service and for your love.“
The program also featured Reverend Father Imman Noel Abellana, OSA, the only Filipino priest serving in the Czech Republic. He delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing that in everything Filipinos do, we should embody the humility, simplicity, and resilience of the Señor Santo Niño.
A Celebration of Culture and Talent
After the inspiring messages, the program shifted to a more festive tone with lively dance performances. Among these were four groups who gracefully performed while holding the statue of the Infant Jesus.
The Sidlak Sinulog Dance Group opened the program with a graceful interpretation of the traditional Sinulog dance, performed to the iconic Sinulog theme song.
Faith of Bagani dazzled the audience with their colorful ensembles, perfectly capturing the vibrancy of Sinulog.
Dresden Sinulog Representatives traveled all the way from Germany to bring their lively dance and infectious energy to the celebration.
Igorots in the Czech Republic added a unique touch by performing the traditional banga dance, balancing clay pots on their heads, a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the Cordillera region.
The celebration ended on a high note with a lively dance for everyone, accompanied by the spirited chants of “Viva Pit Señor!” ringing through the air.
Behind the Scenes: Overcoming Challenges
The Master’s of the Ceremony – Ms. Marissa V. Meñez and Ms. Lea Colegado-Tyman, shared in an interview that despite the challenges of organizing such a large event, the collective effort and dedication of the officers and members of the Cofradia Prague and volunteers from the Filipino community made it all possible.
The festivities concluded with a reception in the St. Thomas Church refectory, where attendees shared a delightful feast of Filipino dishes.
More Than a Religious Event
Sinulog 2025 was more than just a religious celebration, it was a testament to the enduring Filipino spirit, showcasing leadership, talent and camaraderie.
As the day ended with the resounding laughters from everyone, one thing was clear: Sinulog goes beyond its roots as a religious event; it’s a heartfelt celebration of culture, a deep sense of belonging, unity in faith, and the shared joy of being Filipino, no matter where in the world we may be.
Viva Pit, Señor!
All Photos Courtesy of: HANADEE MAROHOMSAR
Event Rights Reserved by Cofradia del Santo Niño de Cebu – Prague Chapter
