LEGAZPI CITY – The annual fluvial procession honoring ‘Our Lady of Peñafrancia’ in Naga City drew a massive crowd of 1.5 million catholic devotees and pilgrims on Saturday. This year’s event was larger than that of the previous year which attracted 1.3 million participants.
The Department of Tourism-Region V (DOT-V) highlighted the significance of the occasion in terms of both faith and tourism. Director Herbie Aguas emphasized the increasing number of tourists and pilgrims visiting Naga City for the festival, showcasing the strong faith of millions of Filipinos.
Aguas noted that the event not only benefited Naga City economically but also had a positive impact on neighboring areas. Increased hotel bookings in Legazpi City, fully booked flights, and higher demand for restaurants and souvenirs were observed during the festival.
The fluvial procession featured the sacred images of Our Lady of Peñafrancia and Divino Rostro being carried on an adorned pagoda along the Naga City River. Songs and prayers were dedicated to “Ina” (mother) throughout the procession.
The Peñafrancia Festival is renowned as the largest religious event in Bicol. This year’s celebration commemorated the centenary of the Canonical Coronation of Our Lady of Peñafrancia with the theme “Se siempre la Reina!” (Be Always the Queen!).