LEGAZPI CITY – A record number of 1.5 million Catholic devotees participated in the annual fluvial procession for Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Naga City this Saturday:A record number of 1.5 million Catholic devotees participated in the annual fluvial procession for Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Naga City this Saturday, marking a significant increase from last year’s 1.3 million attendees.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Naga City government noted the growing number of participants in this major religious event. Department of Tourism-Bicol (DOT-5) Director Herbie Aguas highlighted the dual benefit of the procession, emphasizing not only the spiritual significance but also its positive impact on local businesses. “Yearly, we monitor that tourists, pilgrims, and devotees who visit Naga City to attend the festival are increasing. This only shows the strong faith of millions of Filipinos. In Bicol, we promote faith tourism,” Aguas stated.
The event, which is the highlight of the Peñafrancia Festival – consi
dered the biggest religious gathering in the Bicol region – featured the traditional carrying of the sacred images of Our Lady of Peñafrancia and Divino Rostro along the Naga City River. The images were placed on a beautifully adorned pagoda and accompanied by devotional songs and prayers.
This year’s festival is particularly special as it marks the 100th anniversary of the Canonical Coronation of Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Themed ‘Se siempre la Reina!’ (Be Always the Queen!), the celebration attracted not only local devotees but also international pilgrims, significantly boosting the local economy through increased hotel bookings, packed flights, and heightened sales in restaurants and souvenir shops.
The Police Regional Office-5 reported that the event went smoothly with only minor criminal activities such as theft and physical injuries recorded. PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon credited the success to thorough preparations and effective collaboration with various stakeholders and the local government.