Antipolo Cathedral
Jan. 26, 2024
The Antipolo Cathedral, also known as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, in Antipolo City, Rizal, was officially declared as the Philippines鈥� first international shrine. In June 2022, the Vatican announced the approval of the elevation of the cathedral to the status of an international shrine. In March 2023, in a decree issued by Pope Francis, the Antipolo Cathedral鈥檚 new international shrine status took effect. It became the first Marian international shrine in Asia and the sixth in the world. The cathedral is home to the Marian image of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. Each year, this shrine attracts millions of pilgrims, particularly during the pilgrimage season, which begins with the Alay Lakad from Quiapo Church on April 30 and lasts throughout May鈥攖he month dedicated to the Holy Mother.
Poro Point
Jan. 28, 2008
The National Historical Institute installed a historical marker at the Poro Point Lighthouse in San Fernando City, La Union. Constructed in 1885, the lighthouse was made of steel and featured a lamp designed by Sautter, a French company. In 1886, a pavilion designed by Jose Fernandez was built for the lighthouse keeper. In 1903, Governor General William Howard Taft declared the area where the lighthouse stood a United States reservation, leading to the conversion of the old pavilion into a concrete structure. A new concrete lighthouse was completed in 1979. In 1991, the Poro Point Lighthouse was officially transferred to the Philippine government and became the headquarters of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon of the Philippine Navy. Today, it stands as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, offering visitors serene views and a perfect backdrop for capturing beautiful photographs.
This Week鈥檚 Festivals
Hil-o Hil-o Festival
(Jan. 23 to Jan. 30)
The Hil-o Hil-o Festival, held in the municipality of Maayon in Capiz, is a weeklong celebration of faith and culture where locals and visitors experience the festive atmosphere while paying tribute to their religious and cultural heritage. At the heart of the celebration is the devotion to Se帽or Sto. Ni帽o, whose influence and divine protection are integral to the festival鈥檚 spiritual essence. This year鈥檚 Hil-o Hil-o Festival showcases a blend of religious observances and community-driven activities. It will include sacred events such as Masses and a procession. There will also be civic activities such as Citizens Day, a job fair and a medical mission.
Ubay-ubay Festival
Ubay-ubay Festival
(Jan. 22 to Jan. 31)
The Ubay-ubay Festival is an annual celebration that showcases the rich culture and vibrant traditions of the municipality of Ubay in Bohol. This year鈥檚 festivities commence with the Novena Masses, a sacred journey of prayer and thanksgiving that unites the hearts of the faithful in devotion to the town鈥檚 beloved patron, Se帽or Sto. Ni帽o. This festival will also feature a series of significant religious events, including a foot procession, a fluvial procession, a mass wedding and the celebration of life with a baptism. Beyond the religious observances, the Ubay-ubay Festival also brings an array of cultural and recreational activities.
Compiled by: Nathalie Grace Adalid, Inquirer Research
Sources: Inquirer Archives, Ubay-ubay Festival 2025 Facebook page, Maayon Lgu Facebook page, Mayor Mon-Mon Malapajo Facebook page, sanfernandocity.gov.ph, iloilo.gov.ph, elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph, antipolocathedral.com, philatlas.com, nhcphistoricsites.blogspot.com