Archdiocese of Caceres prepares for Penafrancia feast amid the pandemic
Three months before the celebration of the Penafrancia Festival in the Bicol Region, the Archdiocese of Caceres has started to prepare for the observance of the event under the new normal.

Caceres Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona appealed for the cooperation and understanding of devotees as the archdiocese continues to implement changes in the traditional celebration amid the pandemic.
The archbishop called on devotees of Ina to view the current situation as an opportunity to strengthen their faith through fervent prayers and reflection together with their families.
“We recognize the longing of many devotees for the traditional devotional practices. Truly, such practices have contributed to the propagation of devotion.. But given the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a threat to public health, it is of higher value to celebrate the Peñafrancia Festival in solemn thanksgiving to our Ina who has always protected us from harm,” Archbishop Tirona said in a circular.
Thousands of tourists and devotees troop to Naga City in September for the Peñafrancia Festival, which celebrates devotion to Our Lady of Penafrancia as well as the Divino Rostro or Holy Face of Jesus.
“As the pinnacle of our Marian feast, the Peñafrancia Fiesta unites devotees from different geographies and generations. This year, the fiesta will unite devotees in prayer and reflection while we strictly observe health protocols and other precautionary measures,” Tirona said.
The prelate assured the faithful that despite the changes in the traditional celebration, Ina will continue to bless and intercede for her children.
The theme for Peñafrancia 2021 is “Sharing the Gift of Faith in the Spirit of the Faithful Obedience of Mary and Joseph.”