Thousands join Peñafrancia Traslacion in Naga City

The “Pagbalyo ki Ina,” or the transfer of the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia from the Basilica Minore to the Peñafrancia Shrine, was among the activities leading to the annual Traslacion, which will mark the start of the nine-day novena in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia (Photo by Jarvis-Ivan G. Sadiua) LEGAZPI CITY — Thousands of pilgrims trooped to Naga City on Friday for the annual Traslacion of the images of Our Lady of Peñafrancia and Divino Rostro. Ahead of the procession, Daet Bishop Herman G. Abcede celebrated Mass at the Old Shrine, marking the start of the nine-day novena for Our Lady of Peñafrancia. The sacred images were then transferred to the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral. READ: Bicol police boost security for Peñafrancia pilgrims on Sept. 9 Article continues after this advertisement Rev. Bernie Anthony V. Ramirez, parish priest of the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Church, described the participation of pilgrims, devotees, and voyadores as an expression of faith, love, and devotion to “Ina,” the affectionate term for Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Police Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio, Bicol regional police director, said tight security measures were in place, including deployment of personnel to protect pilgrims and to manage traffic. Police officers roamed the area carrying placards and using megaphones to remind participants to stay alert and care for their personal belongings. Traffic was rerouted for roads used in the procession. Cellular signal was temporarily disrupted in parts of Naga City as an additional security measure, according to Bicol police spokesperson Police Lt. Col. Maria Luisa Calubaquib. The disruption to mobile phones and internet users blanketed the city center, particularly areas along the procession route of the Traslacion./coa Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again. Your subscription has been successful.