Dance for glory: Lakbayaw season is on

In preparation for the Feast of the Holy Child Jesus, widely known as the Santo Niño and celebrated on the third Sunday of January, multiple festivities are set to take place across the Philippines.

From the Sinulog Festival in Cebu, Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo, and Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan, Filipinos once again honor the image of the Holy Child, which many devotees believe to be miraculous.

In Metro Manila, particularly in Tondo, the celebration takes on a distinctive and lively form that blends faith and movement, regarded by many participants as a unique act of devotion.

What is the Lakbayaw Procession?

The Lakbayaw Procession is a fusion of the Filipino words “lakbay” (to travel) and “sayaw” (to dance), referring to a devotional dance offered in honor of the Santo Niño.

Among the well-known Lakbayaw groups in Tondo are Siete Pares and Siete Otso, which regularly participate in the celebration.

The Minor Basilica and Archdiocesan Shrine Parish of Santo Niño de Tondo has issued guidelines for devotees interested in joining its Lakbayaw initiative.

According to the parish, the Lakbayaw Procession will be held at 7 a.m. on January 17, 2026. It clarified that there will be no afternoon or evening sessions.

“The Lakbayaw Procession is a devotional treasure of our Parish, so it is only right that we keep it holy and peaceful,” the church said in a Facebook post.

The parish also reminded devotees to keep their intentions, aspirations, and prayers in mind as they dance to the rhythm of the drums in honor of the Santo Niño.