Visit The Shrine of Our Lady of Manaoag on Holy Week with Victory Liner

MANILA, Philippines - Five hours north of Manila lies the province of Pangasinan.  Known for its delicious food — mangoes, boneless bangus and Calasiao puto —a we-inspiring beaches, marine parks and waterfalls, not to mention the ever-famous Hundred Islands, Pangasinan is definitely a treasure trove for the senses that is worth exploring again and again. Most importantly, for the faithful Catholics, Pangasinan is also home to a revered refuge of healing and devotion — the Our Lady of Manaoag.

The image, one of the most adored Marian icons in the country, is said to have miraculous powers.  The statue is housed inside the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag. Every day, people from all walks of life travel to this municipality in Pangasinan to hear Mass, pray the rosary, offer flowers, light candles and be in contact with the venerated image. As seemingly described by its name — manaoag, connotating “a calling” in Filipino — hundreds of people flock to this icon’s home every day.

The church’s interiors are strewn with German and Italian Renaissance motif. The other walls of the shrine also feature murals depicting the miracles credited to the Our Lady of Manaoag. Situated near the back of the altar that leads into the mini chapel is a beautiful wooden carving of the Our Lady of Manaoag on a tree trunk.

Within the church grounds, other facilities and points of interest are worth visiting. The Museo de Nuestra Señora de Manaoag offers a plethora of tangible historical and religious heritage of the Our Lady of Manaoag and the church — from antique altar pieces like chalices, patens and candelabras to capes, chasubles and other priestly garments.

Victory Liner has made it easier for Catholic devotees and tourists to experience the faith of the Our Lady of Manaoag with direct trips to the church proper. With comfortable seats that provide ample legroom, passengers can pass time enjoying free Wi-Fi onboard. The bus stops only a few feet away from the church, making it easy and convenient for passengers to walk. After spending prayerful moments inside the shrine, visitors can also explore the surrounding town areas for pasalubong and refreshments.

Direct trips to Manaoag take place every Sunday at 4 a.m. and 4:30 a.m.  at the Pasay terminal, and at 4 a.m. at the Cubao terminal of Victory Liner. For other trip schedules and online booking, visit www.victoryliner.com.