20/05/2026
Today’s featured Marian Images at the Ligao Marian Exhibit 2026 with the theme: “Maria, Stella Missionis” Mary, Star of Mission:
THE BICOL CORONADAS
In the Bicol Region of the Philippines, 9 revered Marian images have received coronations from the Church, recognizing their deep historical, spiritual, and devotional importance among the faithful. These coronations are classified mainly as either Pontifical or Episcopal.
What is the Difference Between Pontifical and Episcopal Coronation?
A Pontifical Coronation is the highest form of crowning granted to a Marian image. It is authorized directly by the Pope through the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments in the Vatican.
This recognition is usually given to images that have centuries of strong public devotion, are associated with miracles or extraordinary favors, hold great significance in the life of the Church and the nation and possess historical and theological importance.The crown is bestowed in the name and authority of the Holy Father.
An Episcopal Coronation is granted by a local bishop or by the Conference of Bishops. It is still an official ecclesiastical recognition, but the authority comes from the diocesan or regional bishop rather than directly from the Pope.
This type of coronation honors strong local devotion, recognizes pastoral and cultural importance and is more localized in ecclesiastical scope.Although lower in rank than a pontifical coronation, it remains a very significant honor for a Marian image and its devotees.
The Bicol Region has 3 Pontifically Crowned images of the Blessed Virgin Mary:
1. Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia (Crowned, September 20, 1924)
2. Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de Paracale (Crowned, September 1, 2012)
3. Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Libmanan (Crowned, October 11,2015)
The 6 Episcopally Crowned are:
1. Nuestra Señora de Salvacion de Joroan
2. Nuestra Señora de Katipanan de Nabua
3. Nuestra Señora del Pronto Socorro de Buhi
4. Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Tambo
5. La Inmaculada Concepcion de Pequeña
6. Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Sorsogon
Among the 9 crowned images, 5 are currently present at the Ligao Marian Exhibit in the halls of the St. Stephen the Protomartyr Parish Ligao City. The other 4 are set to join them in a public appearance at the 2nd Ligao Marian Procession 2026 on May 30, 2026.
Come and Visit the Ligao Marian Exhibit 2026 with the theme: “Maria, Stella Missionis” Mary, Star of Mission. Open Everyday until 9pm.
