The Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, also known as “Ang Iloy,” is a limestone sculpture of the Virgin Mary and the Child Jesus, traditionally said to have been discovered by local fishermen in the Iloilo River. It stands about 60 inches tall and exudes a regal appearance, with both figures crowned and the Virgin adorned with doce estrellas or twelve stars and a finely embroidered cape. It has been serving as a major pilgrimage site, with devotees visiting for prayers, healing, and requests for blessings. In 1981, the image was crowned by then-Pope John Paul II, making this Marian image more unique. The sculpture’s aesthetic design reflects a colonial past, and its rarity as one of the oldest religious images in the region adds to its cultural and historical significance. Currently housed at the Jaro Cathedral, the statue faces conservation challenges, such as wear and tear and from risks of theft or vandalism. These are mitigated by its placement encased in a protective glass case.
ANG ILOY: STATUE OF NUESTRA SEÑORA DE LA CANDELARIA OF THE JARO CATHEDRAL(JARO, ILOILO CITY)
Location/s:
Photo Credit/s:
Marc Leo Layson, 2024
Mappers:
Arman Andreo ,Arch. Isis Doblado ,Ixxy Precioso,Jessa May Demeillo,Kristine Nicole Maprangala
Tags:
1587, 1981, 60 inches tall, Ang Iloy, blessings, child Jesus, conservation challenges, crowned figures, cultural importance, doce estrellas, embroidered cape, glass compartment, healing, Historical Significance, Iloilo River, Jaro Cathedral, limestone sculpture, local economy, Marian image, Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, Pilgrimage Site, Pope St. John Paul II coronation, prayers, rare religious statue, Spanish influence, spiritual value, theft risks, Virgin Mary, wear and tear
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