The Santo Niño de Cebu stands as the oldest surviving Christian relic in the Philippines. Brought to the islands in the early 1500s, it predates the Spanish settlement of Cebu by several decades and remains a central figure during Sinulog.
A Gift From 1521
The image arrived in 1521 during Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition. It was presented to Queen Juana of Cebu, marking the first known introduction of Christianity in the archipelago. This moment set the groundwork for a religion that would later define much of Philippine culture.
Rediscovery in 1565
When Miguel López de Legazpi reached Cebu in 1565, the image was found intact during the second Spanish expedition. Its rediscovery became the catalyst for establishing the first Spanish settlement and the earliest Catholic church on the island.
Oldest Christian Relic in the Country
Because of its early arrival, the Santo Niño is regarded as the oldest Catholic relic in the Philippines. Its presence predates both formal colonization and the founding of colonial churches, giving it significance beyond religious devotion.
Symbol of Faith and Tradition
The image became the centerpiece of the church that would eventually become the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Over time, it grew into a national symbol of faith, tradition, and identity, especially visible during the annual Sinulog festivities.
The Santo Niño reached Cebu long before the city became a Spanish settlement, making it a historical link between pre-colonial Visayas and the rise of Christianity in the Philippines. Its legacy continues to shape Sinulog and remains deeply rooted in Filipino life and culture.
