The traditional “Balyuan” rites started in the mid-18th century when “Kankabatok” (the old name of Tacloban) was but a small sitio of the prosperous village of Basey, whose people had for its titular head and protector the Sr. Sto. Niño whom they venerated through a small, but not-so-well sculptured statue.
In Buscada (Basey), the people worshiped the same patron whom they praised through a newer, bigger and better-sculptured image donated by a Tagalog businessman whose business prospered in the area. Because ‘Kankabatok’ was a bigger and more prosperous village compared to Buscada, the parish priest of Basey deemed it wise to arrange an exchange of images. ‘Kankabatok’ received the bigger and more beautiful image.
Balyuan in the Year 2020
Church and local officials have canceled this year’s 46th “Balyuan” rites following a surge of coronavirus infections in both places.
Novena masses in honor of their patron, Señor Santo Niño de Tacloban, for the 131st fiesta celebration in the city will push through though, starting June 20 to last until the end of the month.
As of the June 20, Tacloban has 32 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases, while Basey has 20.
Earlier, Basey Mayor Luz Ponferrada imposed “temporary suspension of work” and urged residents to stay at home while they are doing contact tracing.
Though there is no lockdown in Tacloban City, Mayor Alfred Romualdez has provided a hotel as an isolation facility for 18 health workers who tested positive for the deadly virus.
