Antipolo Cathedral Prepares for Elevation to International Shrine Amidst Traffic Advisories

Antipolo City – The local government has issued a traffic advisory in anticipation of increased congestion due to religious activities preceding the elevation of the Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage to an “international shrine” on January 26.

According to Philippines News Agency, daily Marian processions will commence from the Antipolo Cathedral and traverse key city roads from January 17 to 25. The processions, involving replica images of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage (Virgin of Antipolo), a 17th-century Roman Catholic wooden image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, are expected to attract thousands of devotees and tourists, particularly impacting traffic from 6 p.m. onwards each day of the nine-day religious celebration. Mayor Ynares has advised motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid congestion.

The primary routes affected include M.L. Quezon, Sumulong, Lawis, and Sto. Niño streets. Concurrently, an exhibit featuring various replica images of the Virgin of Antipolo was inaugurated at Robinsons Mall in Antipolo, marking the 70th anniversary of the church’s designation as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. Rev. Fr. Reynante Tolentino, shrine rector and parish administrator, commented on the exhibit’s reflection of the deep devotion of the Blessed Virgin of Antipolo’s followers. The exhibit is promoted by the Antipolo City Culture, Arts and Tourism Promotions Office.