DAVAO CITY – The Archdiocese of Davao sees a large turnout of pilgrims as the image of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage visits select churches and communities here and nearby areas from Aug. 7 to 10.

Speaking at the Davao Peace and Security Press Corps media conference at The Royal Mandaya Hotel in this city on Wednesday, Aug. 5, Rev. Fr. Marbendear Morallas, Episcopal Vicar for the Laity of the Archdiocese of Davao, said the Archdiocese of Davao has been coordinating with the police, traffic enforcers, local government units, and other concerned agencies to ensure activities are conducted safely and orderly.

"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 will be held 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 reminds 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 said the image will arrive on Aug. 7. It will be brought to San Pedro Cathedral on San Pedro St., where several Masses and veneration will be held.

On Aug. 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 will be held on Aug. 9, beginning at 7 a.m., and the image will travel to Peñaplata in the Island Garden City of Samal and visit communities in Babak and Sasa.

On Aug. 10, the image will visit parishes in Buhangin, Maa, and Santa Ana, all in Davao City, where a closing Mass will be held at 5:30 p.m.

Morallas said Davao City is among the eight port cities included in the pilgrimage. The others are Cebu, Dumaguete, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, Puerto Princesa, and Batangas.

The Episcopal Vicar said the visit has the theme "Paglalakbay, Pag-aakay, Pag-aalay," or journeying, guiding, and offering, which are part of the celebrations marking the image's historic milestones.