By Marc Eric Cosep
Digital Media Specialist
CEBU CITY (April 13, 2022) — Mayor Mike Rama today assured that despite the challenges, the annual Buhing Kalbaryo will continue for many years to come.
He, however, said this would not be achieved if not everyone will support and be united in the resolve to hold this yearly tradition.
“Dili gyud ni maputol, basta magkahiusa lang tang tanan,” he said.
This year, the Buhing Kalbaryo will start at 10 a.m. at the Archdiocesan Shrine of San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish.
Instead of ending at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe de Cebu, however, it will conclude just before the church at the Espina ancestral compound.
The mayor asked for the cooperation of those who would watch the play to observe social distancing and follow orders from the authorities
Mayor Rama, who initiated this tradition in 1997, said he is proud of what the Buhing Kalbaryo has achieved, as it cultivated the artistic side of those involved in this project.
“Daghan na ta og naagian ani. Naa tay mga tao nga nag 25 years na, or ilang mga anak ug apo niapil na sa atong tradition,” he said.
He thanked all those involved in this year’s staging for pushing through with the re-enactment of the Passion of Christ after it was put on hold for two years because of the pandemic.
Buhing Kalbaryo creative and artistic consultant Elmer “Jojo” Labella said he has been very supportive of this project, saying that this is not just for entertainment but a means for “spiritual refuelling” of everyone.
“This is also part of our devotion to the Lord as we remember his life through this play,” he said.
Dannika Cabelles, one of the lead singers, said her performance is her way of thanking the Lord after she passed the 2020/2021 bar examinations.
“This is how I will give thanks to the Lord kay grabe kaayo iyang blessings nga gihatag sa ako this year, especially karon nga lawyer na nako,” she said.
Since the city is now under Covid Alert Level 1, Labella said they expect a large crowd to witness the Buhing Kalbaryo.
The Philippine Navy and force multipliers like barangay tanods, though, would already be on standby to ensure the observance of minimum public health standards. #
Cebu City • News & Information 