An estimated 1.2 million devotees gathered in Naga City for the fluvial procession of El Divino Rostro and Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia on Saturday, despite the activity held at nighttime for the first time due to low tide.

Devotees, pilgrims and visitors waited along the route to witness the annual religious tradition.

Among them was 60-year-old Lito Almazar, who has been a devotee of “Ina” for 50 years.

Almazar said he continues to travel from Canaman to Naga City every year, some 14 kilometers separating the two Camarines Sur towns.

“I come here every year to watch Ina’s procession. I am happy that I can always come to Naga to visit Ina and see her,” he said, adding that his devotion includes praying for a longer life and for his children to be spared from calamities and other difficulties.

Meanwhile, 48-year-old Lailane Nebria, a street vendor in Naga City and a devotee for more than 30 years, said the annual celebration is important to her livelihood.

“When Peñafrancia comes, it is what we really look forward to because Ina’s celebration is a big help to us,” Nebria said.

“Whether the water rises or falls, Ina’s procession should continue because that is what is most important, especially for the devotees.”

For 22-year-old Nathaniel Serrado of Bula town, youth participation helps carry on the tradition.

“For me, it is important that we continue to remember our traditions as part of the community. We should not forget the miracles and what Ina has done,” Serrado, a devotee for five years, said.

He said young people are increasingly exposed to technology, which lessens their interest in attending traditional celebrations.

“I think I should be one of those who show that we should still value these traditions,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) said the fluvial procession concluded peacefully.

PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio said security operations were conducted before, during and after the procession. Personnel maintained presence in convergence areas, roadways, and other areas frequented by devotees.

“The peaceful conduct of this year’s fluvial procession is a reflection of the collective effort of our police personnel, partner agencies, local government units, volunteers, stakeholders and most importantly, our people,” Silvio said. (PNA)