Santo Niño de Cebu
The Santo Niño de Cebu is a revered statue of the Child Jesus, believed to be the oldest Christian relic in the Philippines. It was given to Queen Juana of Cebu by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 as a gift to encourage her conversion to Christianity. The statue is made of wood and is adorned with intricate clothing, symbolizing the deep-rooted Catholic faith in the country.
This statue is housed in the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year. The annual Sinulog Festival, held in January, celebrates the Santo Niño and showcases vibrant street dancing and cultural performances, reflecting the rich heritage and devotion of the Filipino people.