DAVAO CITY – The Archdiocese of Davao expects a large turnout of pilgrims as the image of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage visits selected churches and communities in Davao City and nearby areas from August 7 to 10 this year.
Speaking at the Davao Peace and Security Press Corps media conference at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday, Aug. 5, Rev. Fr. Marbendear Morallas, Episcopal Vicar for the Laity of the Archdiocese of Davao, said preparations are underway.
Astronomy
Morallas said the Archdiocese of Davao has been coordinating with the police, traffic enforcers, local government units, and other concerned agencies to ensure the activities are conducted safely and in an orderly manner. Demographics
"Traffic and security plans are being prepared in advance, with regular coordination with government agencies," Morallas said. "The archdiocese also wants visitors to experience Davao City's hospitality and leave with a positive impression."
According to the Episcopal Vicar, the four-day pilgrimage comes as the Catholic Church marks the 400th anniversary of the image's arrival in the Philippines and the 100th anniversary of its canonical coronation.
Morallas said the Marian devotion should also remind the Church of its responsibility as a "mother and teacher," particularly in guiding young people and helping them become responsible members of society.
He cited recent school violence incidents, saying these highlight the need for schools and other institutions to do more to protect and guide young people. He added that everyone shares the responsibility of helping them become responsible individuals.
"A school should be a sanctuary of peace where students can learn and grow," Morallas said, adding that violence in schools is not only an educational concern but also reflects weaknesses in broader social structures.
Morallas said the Church is strengthening parish programs focused on mental health, family support, and youth formation, and is open to working with schools, government agencies, and other institutions to help build safer communities.
The Archdiocese of Davao announced that the pilgrim image will arrive in Davao City on August 7. It will first be brought to San Pedro Cathedral on San Pedro Street, where several Masses and the veneration of the image are scheduled. Demographics
City& Local Guides
On August 8, the image will visit the Regional Major Seminary in Barangay Catalunan Grande, the Holy Cross of Binal, and the Santo Rosario Parish in Toril.
A fluvial procession is scheduled for August 9, beginning at 7 a.m., and will travel to Peñaplata in the Island Garden City of Samal. The image will then visit communities in Babak and Sasa.
On August 10, the image will visit parishes in Buhangin, Maa, and Sta. Ana, all in Davao City, where a closing Mass will be held at 5:30 p.m.
Morallas said Davao City is among only eight port cities included in the pilgrimage. He added that other destinations are Cebu, Dumaguete, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, Puerto Princesa, and Batangas.
City& Local Guides
The Episcopal Vicar said the visit is being held under the theme "Paglalakbay, Pag-aakay, Pag-aalay," or journeying, guiding, and offering, as part of the celebrations marking the image's historic milestones.
Rev. Fr. Marbendear Morallas, Episcopal Vicar for the Laity of the Archdiocese of Davao
Facebook Conversations