The celebration of the fiesta of San Juan is often associated with going to the beach or splashing water to celebrate. In its adaptation, the Casa Gorordo Museum, splashes rose petals instead of water, a beautiful and solemn twist in continuing the cherished tradition of celebrating Pista ni San Juan. This historic event, dating back to 1614, commemorates the feast day of San Juan Bautista (St. John the Baptist), a significant figure in Christian faith.
The tradition started with the establishment of a parish dedicated to San Juan Bautista in Parian, Cebu. The grand San Juan church once stood where the Parian Fire Station is now located. San Juan Bautista’s feast day, celebrated on June 24, is notable as he is one of only three biblical figures whose birth and end of human existence are honored by the Catholic Church, alongside Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary.
Throughout the Philippines, the devotion to San Juan Bautista is evident, with numerous places named in his honor, including the City of San Juan in Metro Manila and towns in La Union and Abra. Celebrations often involve splashing water and sea bathing, symbolizing his role as the Baptizer.
In Cebu, however, the fervor for San Juan’s feast has waned over time. Yet, the Parian community remains steadfast in its devotion. Among them, the Gorordo family has upheld this tradition for centuries. Although the family no longer resides in Casa Gorordo, RAFI has embraced this heritage, integrating it into the advocacy for the conservation and promotion of local culture and heritage.
RAFI’s commitment to this tradition aims to engage the surrounding communities, ensuring that future generations continue to celebrate and preserve this vital aspect of regional culture and legacy. By keeping the story alive, they honor the past while inspiring pride and continuity for the future.
Every June 24, the Parian community gathers at Casa Gorordo Museum to celebrate the feast of San Juan Bautista. This year’s festivities promise to be a vibrant reflection of the rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations.
