Jaro Cathedral during celebration of feast

Our Lady of Candle Shrine

Thousands of devotees gather at the Jaro Cathedral in Iloilo City every 2nd day of February to celebrate the feast of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Our Lady of Candle).

This is the reason why Jaro is considered by many as the religious capital of Western Visayas. This is also the time when some Jaronians especially abroad would come home and celebrate the feast with their family.

During the celebration, devotees would always attend the mass held inside the church while some go to the Our Lady of Candle Shrine located on top of the church to light the “Perdon” candle.

Devotees believe the Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria makes miracles in their lives. Others would pray for good health while some pray to bear a child.

After the mass, visitors also got a glimpse at the Jaro Agro-Industrial Fair where home decors and furniture, vases, and flowers were sold. These small entrepreneurs came from other parts of the province of Iloilo.

In the afternoon, devotees waited at the plaza for the procession along with the Fiesta Queen and her entourage.

This year, the Jaro Queen is no other than Marie Angelica Chan, the daughter of well-renowned singer and composer Jose Marie Chan who is a full-fledge Ilonggo.

The Jaro district of Iloilo City is known not only for its antique houses. Jaro is also considered a home for some famous personalities like Filipino hero Graciano Lopez-Jaena as well as the Ledesma, Jalandoni, and Lopez clans. with Jennifer Garcia, ABS-CBN Iloilo