Manila, June 13 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday lifted the nation's burdens and aspirations to Our Lady of Guadalupe during a Mass at the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros to mark the start of the pilgrimage.

Marcos led the Act of Consecration and Entrustment of Our Lady of Guadalupe during the historic opening Mass presided by Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula.

In the prayer, Marcos joined the faithful in seeking the protection and intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Celestial Patroness of the Philippines, as the nation faces various challenges.

"We have recourse to your protection, O Holy Mother of God, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Celestial Patroness of the Philippines," Marcos said, expressing the Filipinos'...