Philippines: One million devotees expected for Manaoag Marian icon’s centennial coronation anniversary

Around one million devotees are expected to gather in Manaoag in the northern Philippine province of Pangasinan on April 22 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the canonical coronation of the Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag.

The milestone marks a century of devotion to the revered Marian image, popularly known as “Apo Baket,” long associated with reported miracles and pilgrimage traditions in the country.

Church officials and local authorities said preparations are underway for the large-scale religious event, including a series of liturgical activities and comprehensive crowd management measures.

The centennial celebration carries the theme, “Mother Mary: Crowned in Grace, Calling Us to Jesus,” highlighting the image’s role in leading the faithful closer to Christ.

Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan, which covers much of Pangasinan province, including Manaoag, emphasized the broader spiritual significance of the shrine, especially in times marked by disinformation and global conflict.

“We need Manaoag not only for Pangasinan. We need Manaoag not only for the Philippines. We need Manaoag for the whole world,” Villegas said.

Festivities will begin on April 21 with the rededication of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, coinciding with the exact anniversary of the coronation, and conclude on April 22 with a grand procession.

Authorities said security and safety measures are in place, including police deployment, designated parking areas, medical stations, and ambulance services to manage the expected influx of pilgrims.

A canonical coronation is a rare honor granted by the Vatican to Marian images with widespread devotion, affirming the shrine’s importance as a major pilgrimage site in the Philippines.