By: Christine Joy Abella (GS Faculty)
January 16, 2026 was a day of festivities and faith as the Early Education (EEd) Unit joyfully celebrated the Feast of Señor Sto. Niño and the Sinulog festival. The young Ateneo Hearters came in their colorful Sinulog shirts and accessories and happily participated in the traditional Sinulog dance. They learned the basic Sinug dance steps—two steps forward and one step backward—stomping to the beat of the drums and waving their candles and flowers high in the air. Everyone fervently exclaimed, “Viva Pit Señor!” as they praised and honored the Child Jesus.
In the days leading to the celebration, the EEd pupils learned in their respective classes a short history about Señor Santo Niño and the Sinulog festival. This taught them the real reason behind the celebration and the profound devotion of the Cebuanos to the Child Jesus. In their Arts classes, the pupils also created colorful paper headdresses, which they proudly wore during the Sinulog dance.
It was not only a day of fun and laughter, but also a meaningful opportunity for pupils to discover the profound values of generosity and sharing. During the paraliturgy presided over by Fr. Irmo Valeza, SJ, the EEd pupils offered school supplies as humble gifts to Sr. Sto. Niño, honoring the Child Jesus with their generous hearts. The collected school supplies would then be donated to the children in the school’s partner communities, especially those who were affected by the recent calamities in Cebu.
The festivities ended with a salo-salo as EEd pupils generously shared their food with classmates. The event helped strengthen friendships and urged pupils to shine like Santo Niño in kindness, love, and generosity.
It was truly a radiant day filled with fun activities, music, and learning. The EEd pupils enjoyed celebrating culture, friendship, and faith together, making the feast of Sr. Sto. Niño and the Sinulog Festival a memorable and meaningful experience for all, the young Ateneo Hearters’ way.
