The Diocese of Cubao has declared every second Sunday of October as the Solemnity of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of La Naval.

The mandate “for the spiritual good of the people” was issued in a Declaration dated Sept. 8, 2023, by Bishop Honesto Ongtioco of Cubao but was only made public on Monday.

“The solemnity must be observed in all parishes and chapels beginning this year in accord with the declaration of Pope Paul VI and with the liturgical norms of the Church,” part of the declaration read.

Ongtioco asked that communities must observe all norms and guidelines in the exercise of this devotion.

“All are likewise encouraged to promote the devotion and put into practice the virtues of the Blessed Virgin Mary that lead us closer to her Son, Jesus our Lord,” he said.

The Declaration came ahead of the October 8 feast of Our Lady of the Rosary of La Naval, whose revered image is enshrined at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City.

Since 1646, the second Sunday of October each year has been celebrated in honor of Our Lady of La Naval.

The annual celebration is highlighted with a street procession that attracts thousands of devotees.

The first procession was held on October 6, 1646 in Manila to commemorate the naval victory of the Spanish-Philippine defenders over the Protestant Dutch invaders in the 17th century.

This year also marks the 50th year since La Naval de Manila became the patroness of the city.