Hundreds of Catholic faithful participated in the 182nd Apung Iru Libad Festival on Sunday, June 28, 2026, an annual fluvial procession along the Pampanga River in Apalit town to honor its patron saint, Saint Peter the Apostle, known locally as "Apung Iru."
Fluvial Procession Details
A fleet of passenger vessels and fishing boats escorted the "pagoda" — a decorated barge carrying the image of Saint Peter — down the river. Participants splashed river water on passing boats, following the traditional "basaan" ritual.
Safety Measures
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) deployed personnel and rescue assets along the water route to ensure the safety of devotees.
Festival Schedule
The image of Apung Iru was brought from Apung Iru Chapel in Barangay Capalangan to St. Peter the Apostle Parish Church on Sunday, June 28. It will remain at the parish church for the fiesta before being returned to its shrine on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
