Marinduque’s miraculous ‘Ina’

STATUE of the province’s beloved patron saint at Boac Port.

On the Philippine map, Marinduque is shaped like a heart. Its capital is Boac and has a population of about 260,000. The Southern Tagalog province is located 100 nautical miles from Manila, and is noted for its zero crime rate. Its primary source of income is agriculture, followed by poultry, livestock and fishing.

The Mother of Immediate Succor or Ina ng Biglang Awa is the patron saint of Marinduque. In 1621, the Jesuits brought an image of the Immaculate Conception.

Her intercession has saved its residents on many occasions. Her devotees have multiplied through the years, including those from other parts of the country and the world. Many Marinduqueños believe that they were spared from the wrath of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” because of the Ina ng Biglang Awa. They organized a procession in Boac to thank Her.

Nov. 11 marks Ina’s feast day, while May 10 commemorates Her coronation as patron saint of the Diocese of Boac. In honor of Her love and generosity, a huge statue was built at Boac Port by Gov. Carmencita Ongsiako-Reyes.

Marinduque can be reached via a three-hour drive from Manila to Dalahican Beach in Lucena, where you can get on a boat for a two-hour trip to Boac Port. Beginning March, air transport will also be available to the public.

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