Thousands join 57th Feast of Infant Jesus of Prague at Shine Hills in Davao

DAVAO CITY — Thousands of devotees from across Mindanao gathered at the Shrine Hills in Davao City on Wednesday to celebrate the 57th anniversary of the installation of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague.

The event began with a grand procession in early dawn featuring devotees carrying various replicas of the Santo Niño, marking the official start of the feast.

“I make sure to visit here every anniversary. The Sto. Niño has done so much for me and my family. I have experienced His love and mystery, so I am here to pay my visit,” shared Manuel, a resident of a remote village in the city.

Among the attendees was 62-year-old Rosalinda, who joyfully carried her grandson, Francis, who was dressed in clothes resembling the popular attire of the baby Jesus.

“Francis is my grandson. He was born prematurely but survived, thanks to the Santo Niño. Now, he is a very healthy child,” Rosalinda smiled.

Rosalinda and her grandson Francis.

At 10:00 AM, Davao City Police spokesperson Major Hazel Tuazon reported that over 3,000 devotees had already visited the Shrine Hills. An official from the Shrine Foundation noted that, despite the bad weather, the total number of visitors reached nearly 20,000, as they arrived in batches throughout the day.

The Shrine Hills, renowned for its peaceful and serene ambiance, has become a spiritual landmark in Davao, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually for the feast.

To ensure the safety and comfort of visitors, hundreds of water tumblers were provided by the police at the entrance, allowing only transparent containers to be filled with water.

The event proceeded smoothly and peacefully, with the Shrine Hills filled with prayers, devotion, and expressions of gratitude for the Infant Jesus of Prague.

This year’s feast was a reminder of the deep faith of the people in Davao and their unwavering devotion to the Santo Niño, whose blessings have touched the lives of countless families across the region.