The 2026 Camino de Peñafrancia marks a new chapter in our pilgrimage, one that now embraces the provinces of Sorsogon and Albay as part of our expanding spiritual route. After months of preparation, our journey begins at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Sampaloc, Sorsogon City, on August 29, 2026, where twenty‑nine pilgrims from across Bicol and other parts of the Philippines gathered in unity and devotion. Their diverse backgrounds—and even the varied ways they traveled to reach our starting point—reflect the richness of our communities and the shared faith that binds us together. From this southernmost point of the Bicol Region, we set our sights northward, walking through landscapes, towns, and parishes until we reach the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Shrine in Naga City, in time for the Translación on September 11, 2026.
The land travel from Camarines Sur to Sorsogon before our first day reminded us that every Camino begins with both challenge and grace. Heavy rains and ongoing road construction across Sorsogon, Albay, and Camarines Sur delayed our arrival, yet the warmth of our hosts at Our Lady of Fatima Parish renewed our strength. Msgr. Jun Elegado welcomed us with generosity, and later that evening, Bishop Allan Dialogo concelebrated a Mass that honored the sacrifices of Camino pilgrims and invited the parish community to walk with us in spirit.
As founder of this pilgrimage, I carry with me a personal intention: to dedicate this year’s Camino to Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, praying through her intercession for peace in our nation and across the world. Inspired by this hope, we embrace the theme “A Walk in Peace” and encourage all who encounter our journey to join this movement of harmony and goodwill.
As we begin this sacred walk, we remain mindful of the challenges ahead—unpredictable weather, physical strain, and the emotional weight that often accompanies long pilgrimages. Yet we trust that with God’s grace and the loving guidance of our Blessed Mother, we will find the strength to persevere.
This Camino is not only a test of endurance but an invitation to spiritual growth, reflection, and unity. To our wives, families, and friends, we ask for your prayers for safety and protection. Your support sustains us, and your blessings accompany every step we take toward Naga City, carrying with us the enduring faith and heritage of the Bicolano people.
Day 1 – August 30, 2026
An Pagpuon — The Sending
Start: Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Sorsogon City, Sorsogon. Finish: Our Lady of Most Holy Rosary Parish, Castilla, Sorsogon. Today’s Distance: 27.0 km.
The first morning of our Camino tested both our discipline and our endurance. Many pilgrims were already awake before the 3:00 a.m. alarm, eager to begin the long day ahead despite the cold temperature inside our hall. By 4:00 a.m., we assembled before the altar of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Sampaloc, Sorsogon City to offer our morning prayers and intentions. Knowing we faced a 27‑kilometer walk, everyone prepared their early rituals, mindful that beginning before sunrise would spare us from the intense heat that often blankets this region. For distances beyond 20 kilometers, starting early is essential—it allows us to walk in cooler air, conserve energy, and rest when the sun becomes unforgiving.
Our daily spirituality and reflections are drawn from the Pilgrim’s Prayer Book – Camino de Peñafrancia 2026, Dalan Pasiring sa Mahal na Ina, Second Edition, by Rev. Fr. Francis A. Tordilla, CDP, Spiritual Adviser. An Pagpuon — The Sending reminds pilgrims that the Camino is more than a long walk. It is a Church in motion — a people sent together, journeying together, and called to carry one another along the way.
Our first stretch took us through flat city roads, manageable enough for the initial seven kilometers. As dawn broke, we reached San Ramon Nonato Parish Church around 5:30 a.m., marking our first official stop. Younger hikers arrived much earlier, but I paced myself deliberately, conserving strength for the long journey ahead. By 7:30 a.m., the sun had risen fully, slowing my pace to three kilometers per hour. Despite the growing heat, spirits remained high. Pilgrims exchanged greetings, reminded one another to hydrate, and continued forward with determination. At the 12‑kilometer mark, we paused at Inno’s Bulalohan, where breakfast for thirty pilgrims not only replenished our energy but also supported the local community. The lively banter and laughter inside the restaurant lifted everyone’s morale.
After breakfast, I resumed walking ahead of the group, anticipating that my pace would eventually fall behind. Within two kilometers, my legs grew heavy, especially as we approached the boundary between Sorsogon City and Castilla. Twice, heavy rain poured over us—each downpour lasting about twenty minutes. Though the rain forced us to take shelter, it also offered a welcome chance to rest our tired legs. These pauses reminded us that the Camino is shaped not only by our plans but also by the unpredictable rhythm of nature, which often grants both challenge and relief in equal measure.
By 11:30 a.m., we reached the town of Castilla, where we intended to present a certificate of appreciation to the local municipality. Because it was Sunday, the office was closed, so we entrusted the certificate to the local police for safekeeping. One by one, all pilgrims arrived safely, without incident—tired but grateful. This first major stage of our Camino affirmed the strength of our fellowship, the resilience of our bodies, and the grace that accompanies every step we take toward Ina.
Prayer to Our Lady of Peñafrancia:
“Turn to me thine eyes, O most loving Virgin of Peñafrancia and have mercy on my soul that comes to thee, full of repentance. Protect my family, relatives, friends and benefactors. Intercede for your devotees, both the living and the dead, especially for those whom I am most obliged to help.
“Pray for me, console me, save me. In my hours of peril, adversity, and afflictions, above all, in the hour of my death, appear before your Divine Son to help and defend me. Tell Him that I am your devotee, that having complete trust in your protection, I kneel before your miraculous image to ask for your powerful intercession.
“Virgin of Peñafrancia, pray for me, help me, console me, and deliver me from all evil. Amen”
Day 2 – August 31, 2026
An Harong — The Household
Start: Our Lady of Most Holy Rosary Parish, Castilla, Sorsogon. Finish: Holy Family Church, Putiao, Pilar, Sorsogon. Today’s Distance: 11.2 km; Cumulative Total: 38.6 km.
The second day offered the pilgrims a welcome change of pace, with a manageable trek of 11.2 kilometers toward the town of Pilar, Sorsogon, nestled in Barangay Putiao. We began walking at 5:20 a.m., enjoying the cool morning air as the group moved steadily along the route. By 8:00 a.m., most pilgrims had already reached our destination, while others—choosing a more relaxed pace—arrived closer to 9:30 a.m. The shorter distance and gentle terrain provided a refreshing contrast to the previous day’s demanding journey, allowing everyone to settle comfortably into the rhythm of the Camino. Guided by The Pilgrim’s Prayer Book by Fr. Francis A. Tordilla, “An Harong: The Household,” we were reminded of the homes we left behind and the families who wait, worry, pray, and quietly make this journey possible.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the parish administrator, who briefed us on our accommodation for the night and offered coffee and snacks. With ample time before evening prayers, many pilgrims took advantage of the opportunity to wash their clothes, gathering around a nearby faucet to scrub away the dust and sweat of the trail. The abundance of water and the simple act of cleaning garments became a moment of shared routine and quiet satisfaction. Afterward, pilgrims enjoyed a cool, invigorating bath—an uncommon luxury during long-distance walking—bringing a sense of renewal before the next leg of the journey.
As evening approached, camaraderie filled the air. A few pilgrims volunteered to prepare dinner, showcasing their cooking skills and treating the group to a hearty meal—though the dishes themselves remain a playful secret. Lights were scheduled to be turned off at 10:00 p.m., with alarms set for 4:00 a.m., but experience has taught us that true rest is elusive. Excitement, anticipation, and the natural energy of pilgrimage often keep everyone awake, with many stirring as early as 2:00 a.m. to prepare for the next day’s walk. The shared restlessness has become part of the Camino’s charm, a reminder of the devotion and eagerness that fuel each step.
Early that morning, two additional pilgrims from the National Capital Region arrived at Holy Family Parish to join our growing group. Traveling from PITX in Parañaque all the way to Putiao, they brought with them renewed enthusiasm and a sense of unity that strengthened the spirit of the Camino. Their arrival underscored the expanding reach of this pilgrimage—drawing people from different regions, backgrounds, and walks of life into one shared journey of faith. With hearts full and spirits lifted, we looked forward to the next chapter of our walk together.
Our daily prayer to our loving Virgin of Peñafrancia:
“Turn to me thine eyes, O most loving Virgin of Peñafrancia and have mercy on my soul that comes to thee, full of repentance. Protect my family, relatives, friends, and benefactors. Intercede for your devotees, both the living and the dead, especially for those whom I am most obliged to help.
“Pray for me, console me, save me. In my hours of peril, adversity, and afflictions, above all, in the hour of my death, appear before your Divine Son to help and defend me. Tell Him that I am your devotee, that having complete trust in your protection, I kneel before your miraculous image to ask for your powerful intercession.
“Virgin of Peñafrancia, pray for me, help me, console me, and deliver me from all evil. Amen.”
Overview of the Camino de Peñafrancia 2026: Distances and Stops
Day 1 – August 30: Start – Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Sorsogon City, Sorsogon. Finish – Our Lady of Most Holy Rosary Parish Church, Castilla, Sorsogon; 27 kms.
Day 2 – August 31: Start – Our Lady of Most Holy Rosary, Castilla, Sorsogon. Finish – Holy Family Church, Putiao, Pilar, Sorsogon; 11.2 kms.
Day 3 – September 1: Start – Holy Family Parish Church, Pilar, Sorsogon. Finish – Our Lady of the Gate (Daraga Church), Daraga, Albay; 16.4 kms.
Day 4 – September 2: Start – Our Lady of the Gate Parish – Daraga, Albay. Finish – Divine Mercy Monastery of the Carmelite Nuns, Ligao, Albay, 26.8 kms.
Day 5 – September 3: Start – Divine Mercy Monastery of the Carmelite Nuns, Ligao, Albay; Finish – St. Peter and Paul Parish, Polangui, Albay; 12.3 kms.
Day 6 – September 4: Start – St. Peter and Paul Parish, Polangui, Albay. Finish – St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Buhi, Cam Sur; 24.1 kms.
Day 7 – September 5: Start – Saint Francis of Assisi Parish – Buhi, Cam Sur. Finish – St. Bartholomew the Apostle Parish Church; 22.6 kms.
Day 8 – September 6: Start – St. Bartholomew the Apostle Parish, Baao, Cam Sur. Finish – St. Bernard Abbot Parish, Ocampo, Cam Sur; 17.3 kms.
Day 9 – September 7: Start – St. Bernard Abbot Parish, Ocampo, Cam Sur. Finish – Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Joseph; 26.4 kms.
Day 10 – September 8: Start – Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Joseph, San Jose, Cam Sur. Finish – St. Martin de Porres Parish, Goa, Cam Sur; 13.5 kms.
Day 11 – September 9: Start – St. Martin de Porres, Goa, Cam Sur. Finish – St. Paschal Baylon Parish, Tinambac, Cam Sur; 26.2 kms.
Day 12 – September 10: Start – St. Paschal Baylon Parish, Tinambac, Cam Sur; Finish – Our Lady of the Holy Cross Parish, Bombon, Camarines Sur; 27.4 kms.
Day 13 – September 11: Start – Our Lady of the Holy Cross Parish, Bombon, Cam Sur; Finish – Basilica Minore, Naga City; 9.1 kms
Total Camino Distance – 260.3 kilometers
The header image shows Most Rev. Jose Alan V. Dialogo, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Sorsogon and Msgr. Jun Elegado after their concelebrated mass for the pilgrims on August 29, 2026 before the start of the Camino. (credit: Camino de Peñafrancia)
About the author
DENNIS T. MARPURI graduated from Ateneo de Naga High School. He was an independent IT consultant in the US and worked in nine different states doing contracts primarily with Federal government agencies and Fortune 500 companies. He also became a professional photographer covering NCAA college sports. Now retired, he and his wife Elizabeth love to travel to Europe. They divide their time between Northern California with their immediate family and Ocampo, Camarines Sur, his hometown, where he promotes mountain biking for the local youth. He is the founder and principal advocate of Camino de Peñafrancia,