Million devotees expected for Manaoag coronation centennial

biblelightspromotion
6 days ago
2 min read

From the Website of CBCP

links: https://cbcpnews.net/cbcpnews/million-devotees-expected-for-manaoag-coronation-centennial/

An estimated one million devotees are expected to converge in Manaoag, Pangasinan, on April 22 to mark the centennial of the canonical coronation of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag.

The celebration marks 100 years of faith and pilgrimage to the revered Marian icon, locally known as “Apo Baket,” long associated with reported miracles.

During a recent press briefing, basilica representatives and local government officials outlined preparations and a schedule of religious activities for the milestone event.

The centennial carries the theme “Inán Mariá: Crowned in Grace, Calling Us to Jesus,” underscoring the image’s role in guiding the faithful toward Christ.

Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan highlighted the image’s enduring call to truth, mercy and peace amid challenges, including disinformation and global conflict.

“We need Manaoag not only for Pangasinan. We need Manaoag not only for the Philippines. We need Manaoag for the whole world,” Villegas said.

Festivities will begin with the rededication of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag on April 21, marking the coronation’s exact anniversary.

The April 22 grand procession will pass Rizal Street, the Binalonan-Dagupan Highway, San Jacinto-Manaoag Road and Soriano Street before returning to its starting point.

Authorities have prepared contingency measures, including police task forces, designated parking areas, medical stations and ambulance services, to ensure crowd safety and traffic management. A canonical coronation is a rare distinction granted by the Vatican to Marian images with widespread devotion, affirming the shrine’s status as a major Philippine pilgrimage site. (Savannah Lantay)