AMIDST complex challenges that transpired for centuries with people losing hope, Santo Niño de Praga proclaims his divine grace by forgiveness and gentleness to guide individuals toward freedom, peace, justice, and happiness. During the third week of January at San Beda College Alabang (SBCA), the lively setting, with its decorations and outfits, reflected the mix of tradition and innovation among the people. This blend contributed to the joyful celebrations, signaling the start of this year's Pista ng Santo Niño.

Flags & Petals Synchrony

SBCA was decorated with red and white flags to signify the festival’s celebration and reflect the institution’s identity. In the Santo Niño exhibit and Grand Procession, Santo Niño de Praga, St. Scholastica, St. Bede, St. Benedict, St. Gregory the Great, and others were adorned with various flowers. The flowers symbolize love and spirituality since They are used in religious practices, serving as offerings to spiritual figures. People utilize flowers as a means of expressing their devotion and reverence.

Dazzling in Elegance

As the celebration begins, many attendees are seen wearing casual and formal clothing adorned with festive and vibrant colors. However, some individuals opt for formal attire, specifically traditional Filipino garments such as the Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana. Notable figures, including the Mr. And Ms. San Beda contestants, the Hermano Mayor of this year’s Pista, Atty. Juan Ruffo Chong, and Dr. Rosario Mielmia C. Aquino, Dean of the School of Arts, Sciences & Teacher Education (SASE), wore traditional Filipino attire.

Senior High School students wore costumes for their Sinulog Festival Dance Competition performance alongside the Tertiary School's attire. To demonstrate the devotion and faith of SHS students, participants were dressed in eye-catching and colorful costumes made from lightweight materials such as cotton, featuring impressive beadwork and embroidery. Festival queens, in particular, donned flowing gowns with wings resembling the sun. 

As for Mr. and Ms. San Beda, contestants wore unique costumes that showcased Santo Niño and cultural landmarks in the Philippines. Each participant brought a touch of diverse Filipino culture to the stage, accessorizing themselves with sparkly jewelry, hand props, and elaborate headpieces. Noteworthy contestants are Mico Moreno (III-BSBA-FM), Paolo Miguel Mackay (III-BSP), and Sidney Karlene Solis (III-BSLM) sporting feather headpieces. At the same time, Miho Arellano (I-BSA) opted for a fish headpiece. Kirsten Danielle Moreno (I-BAP) stood out with a headpiece shaped like the sun, and Michaella Louise Valerio (III-BSIT) complemented her costume with a beautiful sword. The costumes drew inspiration from various sources, such as Solis’ Masskara Festival theme and Arellano’s Water concept. Notably, Erica Renee Pang (III-BSBA-FM) incorporated Santo Niño into her costume and props, featuring colors and symbols associated with the Holy Child. 

Bridging the Hearts of the People 

From decorations to attires, SBCA demonstrates its deep faith and passion for Pista ng Santo Niño. The unfolded festivity brought together students, professors, administrators, and visitors. Pista ng Santo Niño 2024 serves as a pathway to strengthen people’s beliefs in So. Niño de Praga. Viva Sto.Niño! Viva San Beda!