After a three-year hiatus due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the much-awaited Lakbayaw Festival is back, bringing joy and festivity to the heart of Tondo, Manila. Celebrated every third Sunday of January, this vibrant event – also known as Santo Niño de Tondo – is the largest gathering in Manila, drawing thousands of Santo Niño devotees.
The festival centers around the venerated image of Santo Niño, which was brought to the Philippines by Augustinian priests from Acapulco, Mexico, in the late 1570s. Located in the parish of Tondo, the ivory image holds a special place in the hearts of the people, who believe in the miracles it can bring to their lives.
What is Lakbayaw
The term "Lakbayaw" is a fusion of two Filipino words, "Lakbay" meaning journey and "Sayaw" meaning dance. The essence of the celebration lies in joyful street dancing to the rhythmic beats of drums.
The festivities kick off in the morning with a lively procession of the Sto. Niño image from the Archdiocesan Shrine of Sto. Niño - Tondo. Following the procession is a dynamic street dance, led by groups of devotees known as "tribu," continuing until the midnight hour, winding through different corners of Tondo. Devoted "tribu" members dance and chant, "Viva El Sto. Niño," creating a vibrant atmosphere. The night concludes with a spectacular fireworks display, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the celebration.
Passing on the Tradition
For Ivy Faustino, the SK Chairwoman of Barangay 97, Zone 8, the Lakbayaw Festival is more than just an event; it's a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Speaking about its significance, she shared, "Mahalaga po siya kasi naging tradisyon na po siya sa amin." She emphasized how the festival has been sustained over the years, handed down from her father to her, and now entrusted to her care as the SK Chairwoman of her Barangay.
Expressing her joy at the festival's return after a three-year hiatus, SK Ivy, who is also part of the Batang Hamog Tribu, highlighted the growing enthusiasm, stating, "Masaya po na bumalik na ito after three years at nasa 400 na ‘yung sumasayaw sa tribu namin ngayong taon. First time siya umabot ng ganito karami. Marami rin kasali sa ibang tribu kaya sigurado na masaya at makulay ang Lakbayaw Festival ngayong taon.”
