by
Smart Communications Inc. | Feb 04, 2025
Jennifer Abanto, a 30-year-old Cebuana devotee living in Auckland, New Zealand, exemplifies how her love for the Señor Santo Niño transcends distance.
Jennifer's devotion for Señor Santo Niño began in 2011, when she left her hometown, Balamban, Cebu, to attend college in Cebu City. Despite facing numerous challenges in adjusting to a new city, she found solace in the Santo Niño. She religiously visited the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu and prayed to the Holy Child for resilience and perseverance to get through all the struggles and finish her studies.
Now that she is in New Zealand, she has vowed to continue her devotion together with her family. This is the second time she's celebrating the feast of Señor Santo Niño abroad, and she made sure to participate virtually by watching Facebook and YouTube livestreams.
“My devotion for Señor Santo Niño knows no bounds. I am miles away from home, but thanks to technology and connectivity, I still feel like I am with the thousands of Cebuanos celebrating our faith and love for the Holy Child," said Jennifer.
PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. powered the recent 460th Fiesta Señor by providing high-speed connectivity for the livestreaming of the Novena masses and other religious activities, seamlessly bringing the festivities closer to all devotees across the world, including Jennifer and her family in New Zealand.
“This year’s theme of the Fiesta Señor really resonates with my life and my relationship with the Santo Niño. He was with me through every phase of my life, witnessing both my hardships and my victories. He is truly my greatest hope,” she said.
From arming her with strength to persevere and sending people who helped her complete her education until she became the first member of her family to earn a college degree and pass a board exam, Jennifer believes that the Señor Santo Niño has continued to bless her with miracles, including her dream to work and live abroad with her family.
With all the blessings Jennifer and her family have received, she never fails to give back to Santo Niño. She serves as an instrument for others to see the goodness of the Holy Child.
“I pray that all devotees keep their faith in the Santo Niño, regardless of obstacles or distance. Challenges will always come your way, but as long as you have hope, He will be there for you,” she said.
PLDT and Smart’s full support for the Sinulog Festival 2025 aligns with the PLDT Group’s commitment to fostering Cebuano faith and culture, uniting devotees all over the world through reliable communication and connectivity.