The Archdiocese of Davao is set to hold La Flotilla, described as the first grand procession of its kind in Mindanao, on June 27, 2026. The event will take place at 2 p.m., with floats from nine vicariates and one religious organization joining the host San Pedro Cathedral. Organizers hail it as a religious and cultural milestone for Davao City.
Significance of La Flotilla
Atty. Aileen Lizada, head of the La Flotilla event, explained that the name refers to small boats traveling together as part of a larger fleet. The term mirrors three key elements: the boat-shaped roof of San Pedro Church, and the bancas used by Jesuit and Augustinian missionaries who brought Catholicism to the area.
"This is the first time for the Diocese of Davao to have something both religious and cultural," Lizada said. "We already have San Pedro here, and we owe it to the Catholic faith that this time around, our church will give a proper tribute to our San Pedro for the 170th anniversary and moving forward." She expressed hope that the event will become an annual tradition with support from vicariates and the public.
Floats and Route
Floats joining the procession include Divine Mercy, St. Francis of Assisi, St. James of Bunawan, Virgin de la Rosa, Immaculate Conception Mintal, Our Lady of Fatima, Sta. Ana Shrine, Most Sacred Heart of Calinan, Santo Rosario, Our Lady of Assumption, and San Pedro Cathedral.
Edwin Mayormita, president of the Parish Pastoral Council of San Pedro Cathedral, said the route was finalized during a security meeting on June 15. "During our security meeting last Monday, in our letter of request, the route will counterflow on C.M. Recto, then Bonifacio, then Iñigo or Anda, then San Pedro," he said.
Participation and Memorabilia
Organizers are targeting 5,000 participants, though the event is open to anyone who wishes to join or watch. The church also plans to showcase memorabilia from past priests assigned to San Pedro Cathedral, along with historical documents.
By Casandra D. Payan and Cathy Jane Orias / SPAMAST, SunStar Interns
