From the Ermita, we crossed the Naga River, and made our way to the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia. This imposing modern shrine, started on April 18, 1976, was completed, after some delays due to financial concerns, on September 1981. The original statue of the Virgin of Peñafrancia was transferred here from the Ermita on May 22, 1982.
This Romanesque-style basilica was given the title “Basilica Minore” on May 22, 1985. The only basilica in the Bicol Region and the whole Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Caceres, its grounds has a fine view of Mt. Isarog.
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| Basilica Minore de Penafrancia |
After touring the basilica itself, we next proceeded to the nearby Altersheim Building where we had the chance to interview Rev. Monsignor Romulo A. Vergara, H.P., the rector of the Peñafrancia Basilica and a cousin of our media colleague Rick Alberto. We were also shown (and privileged to touch) the original Statue of Our Lady. The one I saw at the basilica just happens to be a replica.
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| Monsignor Vergara and the original statue of Our Lady |