January 16 - A day of mourning for Binaliw victims

We join theArchdiocese of Cebu and the Cebu City Government in remembering the Binaliw victims for the “Day of Mourning” this Friday, January 16, 2026.

- Cherry Piquero-Ballescas [e-mail]

As of January 14 morning, 18 deaths have been confirmed, with 12 injured and 25 missing as of January 13 morningLet us all pray together for all missing to be rescued alive soonest, with God’s grace. May the injured heal soon/completely. May the families of the Binaliw victims also be embraced by God's strength and comfort during these difficult days.

Cebu Archbishop Abet has asked “all parishes in the Archdiocese to offer all Masses on this day for the victims of the tragedy, their grieving families and loved ones and may the Lord grant eternal rest to those who have died and comfort to those who mourn.”

Let us all join in continuing prayers that the families of the Binaliw victims be comforted by these words from1 Samuel 2:8- “He raises the needy from the dust; from the dung heap he lifts up the poor, to seat them with nobles and make a glorious throne their heritage.”

The City Council has requested the mayor’s office for a mass to be served at the BInaliw gymnasium to “serve as a collective prayer and remembrance, particularly for families still awaiting word on their missing relatives.”

We welcome Cebu’s solemn and fitting mourning and remembrance for the Binaliw victims and their families before the annual Fiesta Señor and the Sinulog Festival this Sunday, January 18.