MANILA – The Our Lady of Loreto in Sampaloc on Tuesday was crowned pontifically, with hundreds of devotees in attendance to honor the 411-year-old venerated image.

Pope Francis earlier this year granted the image’s pontifical coronation. Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Most Rev. Charles John Brown led the pontifical coronation today.

During her message, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna said the coronation is a recognition of Our Lady of Loreto’s legacy.

“For centuries, citizens of Manila always sought the guidance of Our Lady of Loreto in times of conflicts, distress, and endless challenges. She never failed to lead us to the right path,” said Lacuna.

The Manila local government also formally declared Our Lady of Loreto as the patroness of the District of Sampaloc through a city resolution.

For his part, the Papal Nuncio said Pope Francis has a “great love” for the Our Lady of Loreto.

“He also has a great love for the Filipino people,” said Most. Rev. Brown in his message during the pre-program.

“It gives me a lot of joy to be with you this evening,” he added.

Among those who attended was Nika Manliklik, who has been a devotee of the Our Lady of Loreto since she was young.

Manliklik, who said she has cerebral palsy, expressed her gratitude to the Marian image for sustaining her during hardships.

“Masaya kasi although matagal na akong nag-seserve dito sa loreto, ngayon ko lang ito na-experience,” the 31-year-old said.

“Actually kapag mayroon akong hinihiling natutupad naman, pag sa akin, sa family, and at the same time, nakakatulong para ma-strengthen ang faith ko,” she said.

“Ever since bata ako, PWD ako…Nagpapasalamat ako sa kanya kasi tinutupad niya ang prayer ko hindi man ganon kabilis, pero tinutupad naman niya ang hiling ko,” she added.

Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula and other bishops were present during the pontifical coronation.