14/09/2025
๐ก๐ฒ๐๐ | Marian Youth Congress 2025: A Celebration of Faith, Hope, and Unity
On September 13, 2025, the Marian Youth Congress (MYC) 2025 was held at Ateneo de Naga University Junior High School Department in Pacol, Naga City, with the theme โ Our Lady of Peรฑafrancia: Katood to all."
The event brought together youth from various schools and dioceses across the Bicol region; even the Diocese of Zambales joined, signifying the true inclusive and collaborative spirit of the congress.
The event began with the arrival and registration of participants; upon registration, each attendee received a wristband and an envelope containing a rosary, pen, and paper.
The opening remarks were then delivered by the city mayor, Hon. Maria Leonora Robredo, who emphasized the role of youth as the nationโs hope. She reminded everyone that despite the challenges the country faces, there is always hope, and Ina โ Our Lady โ will continue to guide us through her Son, Jesus Christ.
The opening liturgy followed, a solemn yet joyous moment where the images of Ina and the Divino Rostro were honored and carried by the volunteers. The entire assembly sang hymns dedicated to them, which emphasizes the love, reverence, and devotion.
The atmosphere quickly changed to energetic and lively as the hosts โ Katood Fatima, Katood Niel, Katood Dexter, and Katood Veronika, they hyped up the crowd and introduced the dance animators who brought infectious energy that encourages everyone to join the joyful movement.
Following the joyous dance, participants were then grouped according to the color and number on their wristbands. These groups, collectively called the Paglaom Groups (Hope Groups), were subdivided into:
- Katalingkasan (Yellow)
- Pangiturogan (Purple)
- Kapahingaloan (Brown)
- Kaomayan (Pink)
- Buhay (Green)
- Pakikidumamay (Red)
One of the most profound moments of the congress was the Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by the Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, D.D.. In his homily, he reminded everyone that Ina, is not only our mother but also our katood โ a true companion in faith and in love. He describe Ina as trustworthy, loyal, and supportive โ a mother and a friend to all.
After the mass, participants shared a one-hour dinner with their diocesan or school groups; this moment of fellowship brought happiness as they reconnected with their original groups.
As instrumental music played, signaling the next part of the event, participants regrouped into their Paglaom groups for the Formation Sessions. These sessions allowed them to explore the meaning behind their groupโs theme. Led by the group leaders and formator, participants shared their thoughts and feelings in a space filled with love, understanding, empathy, and acceptance.
At around 2:00 AM, the Dalan nin Paglaom (Path of Hope) commenced--- participants and volunteers walked through the surrounding community, holding candles, placard they made during sessions, and most importantly, their deep faith. Though physically tired, they continued to journey as pilgrims and renews strength, driven by their devotion and belief that Ina, was with them in every step of the way.
This was followed by the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, where the sacrament was reverently presented, leading into the Vigilia nin Paglaom or a reflective moments to internalize the experiences and discern the messages that Ina and Jesus, wanted them to carry forward.
The congress concluded with a Closing Liturgy, led by an experienced community members who inspire whole MYC family with their wisdom and faith. As a final celebration, participants danced again, leaded by dance animators and rejoiced with music from the Sierra Madre Band, who energized the crowd once again before they returned to their homes around 5:30AM.
The Marian Youth Congress 2025 was more than just an event โ it was a spiritual journey, a celebration of community and a call to action. In a world filled with uncertainty, the congress reminded every young person present that they are the hope of the future. As followers of Christ and children of Ina, we are called to be a katood โ faithful companions to one another who are willing to inspire and make change, that is rooted in love, compassion, and unwavering faith.
Viva La Virgen! Viva El Divino Rostro!
words via | Franchiska Paglinawan
photos via | Helena Althea Primicias, Franchiska Paglinawan, Xian Segundo
