"Buling-Buling," translating to "dazzling," "well-dressed," or "sparkling," beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the celebrations in Pandacan, Manila. Approximately 30,000 individuals gather from January 13 to 14 to partake in this yearly religious and cultural event, uniting to pay homage to Sto. Niño.
The festival's true spirit lies in the Pandaqueños, who transform the streets into vibrant runways adorned with exquisite Filipiniana costumes. These costumes symbolize the deep cultural roots and traditions that unite the community in a dazzling display of devotion and celebration.
This year, the Buling-Buling Festival embraced the theme "Pagkakaisa ng Pandacan, Busilak ng Kapayapaan sa Maynila" (Unity of Pandacan, Immaculate Peace in Manila), not only serving as a joyful celebration but also emphasizing the importance of unity and peace within the community.
Father Andy Ortega Lim, the parish priest of Sto. Niño de Pandacan, highlights the festival as an expression of gratitude to God for His blessings. The festive atmosphere becomes a sacred space where the community comes together to thank the Almighty for the grace and prosperity bestowed upon them.
Leadership Presence
The festivities commence on January 13 under the leadership of Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna and Vice Mayor Yul Servo. From Liwasang Balagtas, residents paraded around the neighborhood, carrying the images of Sto. Niño, drawing massive crowds in celebration.
Adding a touch of grandeur to the celebration, Buling-Buling street dancers dressed in vibrant and colorful costumes performed during the town parade. The streets came alive with rhythmic dances and lively music, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and festivity.
The Feast of the Sto. Niño de Pandacan
Beyond the local community, devotees from other parishes joined the feast of the Sto. Niño de Pandacan on January 14, reinforcing the spirit of inclusivity and shared devotion. The festival became a melting pot of faith, uniting people from various backgrounds in celebration of a common belief.
As part of the festivities, the Buganda Tribe presented a mesmerizing drum and dance performance. This cultural extravaganza served as a prelude to the culmination of the feast of the Sto. Niño de Pandacan.
Historical Unity
Reflecting on the festival's history, Mayor Honey Lacuna shares that it was only in 2007 when Buling-Buling and Sto. Niño de Pandacan Festivals were celebrated together.
She recounts, "Noong 2007, sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon ay nagsanib pwersa ang dalawang simbahan—Katoliko at Aglipay upang sa isang maringal na parada ay maipakita ang pagkakaisa ng mga mananampalataya sa Sto. Niño." (In 2007, for the first time, the two churches—Catholic and Aglipay—joined forces to show the unity of faith to Sto. Niño through a grand parade).
