The river procession dedicated to Our Lady of Peñafrancia drew 1.5 million Catholic pilgrims and devotees in Naga City in 2024.?? This year also fell on the 100th anniversary of the Image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia's canonical coronation.
Exceeding the 1.3 million attendance in 2023, the event was once again a remarkable demonstration of faith and commitment.
This year’s theme
As the perennial Queen of Bicol, the theme for this year is "Se Siempre La Reina – Pamanang Banal: Atamanon, Padanayon, Palakupon," which conveys Bicolano's devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia.
One of the lines from the century-old Himno á la Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia is "Se siempre la Reina" (Be always the Queen).
As per the Archdiocese of Caceres, this represents Inâ's queenship through her loving service as Queen Mother, who acts as an advocate for her people, rather than her grandeur.
In order to ensure this sacred legacy's continuous life and relevance, devotees are urged by the Bicolano words Atamanon (to nourish), Padanayon (to preserve), and Palakupon (to share).
Show of devotion
On an ornate pagoda, the holy images of Inâ and the Divino Rostro were transported alongside the Naga River. The pilgrims' enduring faith was seen as they lined the streets and riverbanks to watch the solemn trip, despite the bad weather.
Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, DD, officiated over the Solemn Pontifical Mass at the Basilica Minore, where the procession came to an end.
For the devoted, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, which amplified the meaning of the event for those who were present.
