Pinoy devotees of Our Lady of Peñafrancia hold fluvial procession in Rome

With heartfelt devotion and vibrant tradition, the Filipino community in Rome gathered along the Tiber River to celebrate the fluvial procession of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Patroness of Bicolandia and "Ina" (Mother) of millions of devotees worldwide.

Inspired by the historic tradition in Naga City in the Philippines, the feast of the Ina ng Bicolandia is also celebrated annually by Filipinos in Italy. During this year's celebration on Sunday, September 21, many of the faithful who prayed, sang hymns, and chanted "Viva la Virgen!" Many came dressed in yellow, a color that has become a symbol of their devotion.

The image of the Blessed Mother was placed on a flower-adorned boat that sailed along the Tiber. As the procession moved forward, devotees prayed the Holy Rosary and Novena, just as it is done each year in Naga.

Photo by: Boyet Abucay

The celebration was organized by the Devotees of Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia, in collaboration with the Sentro Pilipino Chaplaincy in Rome, various Filipino associations, religious organizations, and community groups. Philippine Ambassador to Italy, Neal Imperial, also joined the faithful in prayer and offered his greetings.

Before the procession concluded, Fr. Albert Alejo, SJ delivered a meaningful reflection. He emphasized that the fluvial procession is more than just a devotion: "It is a symbol of life's journey and faith, with the Blessed Mother guiding us. It reminds us that Mary continues to be 'with us on the journey' wherever we may be." He also pointed out that the Tiber River, enclosed by its strong stone flood-control walls, serves as a reminder of the deep connection between faith and creation.

The fluvial procession was followed by a Holy Mass at Santa Pudenziana Basilica, presided over by Fr. Ronan Ayag, CS (current Chaplain), Fr. Kevin Mark Rendor, CMF, Fr. Albert Alejo, SJ, Fr. Jose Magadia, SJ, and Fr. Alvin Paras, OFM. Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See, Myla Macahilig, also attended the Eucharistic celebration.

Filipino devotees of the Our Lady of Penafrancia with Neal Imperial (standing in green), Philippine ambassador to Italy. Photo by: Boyet Abucay

The opening of the Pastoral Year, celebrated the same day of the feast day, was celebrated with a vibrant cultural presentation featuring music, dance, and messages from community leaders. Fr. Ronan Ayag, CS, welcomed the attendees.

The Pinoy Teens Salinlahi. Photo by: Boyet Abucay

The Pinoy Teens Salinlahi, a group of Filipino youth born and raised in Italy, sang the Philippine and Italian national anthems. Traditional dances such as Pandanggo Rinconada, Igorot, and Pantomina were performed, alongside interpretative dances from various devotee groups.

The annual celebration of the Peñafrancia in Rome stands as a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and unity among Filipinos in Italy. 

For many, it is not only a way to keep their devotion alive, but also an opportunity to pass on the richness of Filipino spirituality to the younger generation and to share it with Italian friends and other foreigners. — VDV, GMA Integrated News