Faith, festivity and fame converged this January as two of the country’s most beloved celebrations — the Sinulog Festival in Cebu and Lakbayaw in Tondo, Manila — turned into vibrant meeting grounds of devotion and celebrity presence. From roaring mall shows and glittering parade floats in Cebu to deeply symbolic processions in Tondo, familiar faces blended seamlessly into the rhythms of culture and community.

Cebu in full color: Stars join the Sinulog frenzy

Sinulog 2026 once again proved why it is one of the most anticipated festivals in the country. Beyond the pounding drums and swirling costumes, Cebu became a magnet for television stars and music icons who joined sponsor events, mall shows, and the iconic Grand Parade.

Kapuso favorites like Jillian Ward, David Licauco, Cassy Legaspi and Kyline Alcantara drew large crowds as they appeared in mall shows and parade activities tied to network and brand partnerships. Several of them waved from elaborately designed floats, turning the Grand Parade into a moving showcase of celebrity and celebration.

Kapamilya stars also made their presence strongly felt. Coco Martin energized fans during a major mall appearance, while Paulo Avelino, Dominic Roque and Jericho Rosales joined various Sinulog events that blended entertainment with the festival’s spiritual heart.

Music lovers were equally treated as powerhouse vocalists Jed Madela, Jona and Sheryn Regis delivered crowd-pleasing performances during sponsored concerts, transforming public plazas into massive sing-along venues.

One of the most anticipated highlights was the Kapamilya Karavan, led by Regine Velasquez, Zsa Zsa Padilla and Donny Pangilinan, joined by a younger generation of performers who brought fresh energy to Sinulog weekend.