Intramuros Overflows with Faith as Marian Images Illuminate the Grand Procession

The streets of Intramuros, Manila, were filled with thousands of devotees on Sunday, December 7, 2025, as various revered images of the Blessed Virgin Mary were solemnly paraded during the annual Grand Marian Procession.

The centuries-old tradition, held within the historic walls of Intramuros, once again drew pilgrims, church groups, and Marian devotees from across the country. More than a hundred images, each representing different titles of the Virgin Mary, took the spotlight as they were carried through the cobblestone streets accompanied by music, prayer, and festive floral arrangements.

In a social media advisory, the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception — widely known as the Manila Cathedral — encouraged the faithful to participate in the celebration.

“We invite everyone to the Intramuros Grand Marian Procession, featuring various Marian images in the Philippines,” the Cathedral posted.

A notable highlight this year was the presence of the National Pilgrim Relic of Saint Carlo Acutis. The relic was placed for public veneration at a roadside altar along Muralla Street, beside the Baluarte de Dilao, allowing devotees to spend a moment in prayer as the procession passed.

Meanwhile, the observance continues today, December 8, as Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula leads the Fiesta Mass at 12:10 p.m. inside the Manila Cathedral in celebration of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception — the Cathedral’s patronal feast and a nationwide special non-working holiday under Republic Act 10966.

Other Masses scheduled throughout the day are presided by:

• Fr. Vicente Bautista (8 a.m.)

• Fr. Paul Woo of Mary Help of Christians Parish (10 a.m.)

• Fr. Leo Ignacio of San Carlos Seminary (4 p.m.)

• Msgr. Rolando dela Cruz, Manila Cathedral Rector (6 p.m.)

Devotees are expected to continue flocking to the Cathedral throughout the Feast Day, marking one of the most important annual celebrations for Filipino Catholics.