Feast of Sta. Filomena: Sibonga organizes “Sadsad sa Parokya”

CEBU, Philippines - As another way to praise their patron saint, Sibonga parishioners and priests organized the first ever “Sadsad sa Parokya,” which opens the nine-day novena for the Feast of Santa Filomena.

Led by parish priest Fr. Michael “Mike” Hisoler, 25 different organizations from the academe, religious sector and ordinary parishioners, joined the festival of praise and danced in front of Sibonga’s church.

Chriselda Crisologo of the Parish Youth Coordinating Council said it was the first time they organized the Sadsad.

While the town festival has similar feel to Cebu City’s Sinulog, parishioners can choose their own music and perform it by way of slowly moving the feet back and forth.

Young and old, poor and rich gathered in front of the church to join in the praise-dancing, Crisologo described.

She said Hisoler’s group was joined by church personnel, including kitchen staff who danced to the tune of the chacha.

She explained that the event was conceptualized by Hisoler and that it was the first time the church introduced it. Last year, Sibonga had “Kisaw-Kisaw,” another church-based dance festival.

The events planned by the parish are in line with the celebration of Santa Filomena’s feast tomorrow.

Other presenters of the Sadsad were the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, San Jose of Sabang, Inahan sa Kanunayng Panabang, Legion of Mary, Holy Face Crusaders, Chanters Choir, Twin Hearts Choir, Catholic Women’s League, FLA, World Apostolate of Fatima, BEC Formators, Acolytes, Alliance of Two Hearts, Daughters of Mary Immaculate, Sisters of Mary Immaculate, Parish Youth Coordinating Council, Sibonga National High School, Our Lady of the Pillar Academy, Magnificat Choir and Catechist, Vice Mayor Cirilo “Rey” Apuda and some council members also participated in the event.   (FREEMAN)