President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. And First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos attended the centennial canonical coronation of the revered image of the Our Lady of Manaoag on Wednesday. The event took place at the Manaoag Church in Pangasinan, celebrating 100 years of faith and pilgrimage.
Centennial Celebrations and Rites
The festivities commenced on Tuesday with the rededication of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, coinciding with the exact anniversary of the coronation.
This was followed by a grand procession and a pontifical Mass on Wednesday. Archbishop Charles Brown, the Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, presided over the historic coronation rites.
During the ceremony, President Marcos held the crown and received a blessing from Archbishop Brown before the ceremonial canonical coronation was completed.
Historical and Family Significance
The image was originally canonically crowned on April 21, 1926, by Most Rev. Guillermo Piani, D.D., who served as the apostolic nuncio of Pope Pius XI to the Philippines.
The centennial also reflects a family legacy for the President. His grandmother, Doña Josefa Edralin Marcos, led the coronation during the golden canonical celebration held in 1975.
Impact on Faith and Tourism
The image is widely believed to be miraculous, continuing to draw large numbers of devotees and pilgrims to the region.
Due to this enduring devotion, Manaoag has become the most visited faith tourism destination in the province of Pangasinan.
The event was held under the theme, “Inán Mariá: Crowned in Grace, Calling Us to Jesus,” focusing on the image’s role in guiding the faithful toward Christ.
Potential Future Developments
Following the centennial milestone, the Minor Basilica may see a continued increase in pilgrimage activity. The renewed focus on the image’s miraculous reputation could further solidify the area’s status as a primary religious hub in the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the image of Our Lady of Manaoag first canonically crowned?
The image was first canonically crowned on April 21, 1926, by Most Rev. Guillermo Piani, D.D.
Who led the centennial coronation rites in 2026?
The rites were led by the Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Charles Brown.
What is the significance of the 1975 coronation to President Marcos?
President Marcos’ grandmother, Doña Josefa Edralin Marcos, led the coronation during the golden canonical celebration in 1975.
How do century-old religious traditions continue to shape the cultural and tourism landscape of the Philippines today?
