Voyadores: A Band of Brothers growing in faith through the years

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat

A sea of men in color-coded shirts with bands on their heads that read “Viva la Virgen”, carrying Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, is a common sight to behold during the Traslacion and Fluvial processions. Every September, these men walk barefoot to keep Ina safe as she makes her way through the crowd. But, little do we know how they spiritually prepare for one of the most widespread Catholic devotions in the country.

Each year, on the Saturday before the Traslacion, the men collectively known as the Cofradia de San Jose gather at the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia for a night of “Pakikipagtipan ki Ina”. Pioneered by Msgr. Rodel Cajot, PC in 2013, with Fernan Mendizabal and William Menes, the gathering seeks to promote the spirituality of St. Joseph, whose character every voyador must emulate. It also aims to reinforce and keep the camaraderie among the voyadores.

The evening is spent in prayer as the men go through reflection, and participate in the eucharistic celebration and exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. The annual recollection and vigil is capped by a solemn procession within the Pilgrim City of Naga. As they pass through the Colgante Bridge, the men pray for the victims of the tragedy that occurred in 1972.

Far and wide, young and old, Ina draws her voyadores close every September, filling the streets as her feast day approaches. It is a tradition passed on through generations, and one that begins at home.

According to a voyador, his devotion to Ina was ignited by growing up in a Catholic family and with family members who are also voyadores. This roots his understanding of what it truly means to be a voyador at an early age.

And through years of formation and participation, these men grow in their devotion to Ina and mature in their faith as well.

A sea of men in color-coded shirts with bands on their heads that read “Viva la Virgen!” carry Ina every September -a sight to behold as one hopes to catch a glimpse of her or touch her manto, with prayers offered or tears in one’s eyes.

To witness this as a way of expression of devotion is said to be truly phenomenal.

The word voyadores takes its roots in the Spanish word, boyar, which means to lift. It may also mean boya, which perfectly encapsulates the joy, hope and lightness one feels as he carries Ina through the crowd and in his heart.