In Manila, Philippines, a massive procession took place on Thursday, drawing hundreds of thousands of Catholic worshippers who paid tribute to a revered statue of Jesus. Many attendees marched barefoot, a sign of their deep devotion, and offered prayers for health, peace in their country, and the well-being of those who may be affected by changes in U.S. immigration policy under President Donald Trump.
This event celebrates the feast of Jesus Nazareno, an important occasion for Catholics in Asia. The statue, once known as the Black Nazarene, has undergone a name change to avoid historical inaccuracies and potential negative connotations.
The procession commenced early in the morning, with initial estimates suggesting around 250,000 participants. As the day progressed, the crowd grew significantly, although updated attendance figures were not available immediately. Last year, the event saw at least 2 million attendees, with some numbers exceeding 6 million.
Gaspar Espinocilla, a 56-year-old city worker, shared his heartfelt prayers for his family, especially his sister battling ovarian cancer. He also expressed hopes for peace concerning ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, particularly the area’s disputes involving China. “I hope China will ease up on us; they cannot claim everything,” he conveyed passionately, wearing a shirt emblazoned with the face of Jesus Nazareno.
Renato Reyes, a veteran devotee of over 30 years, spoke of his hopes for a brighter future for his loved ones and the Philippines. He included in his prayers not only for his country to remain free from disasters but also for Filipino families affected by potential deportations in the U.S. “I hope they will not implement that,” he expressed, referring to the difficulties many face abroad simply trying to support their families.
The event was secured by a significant police presence, including officers in plain clothes, drone surveillance, and commandos stationed along the procession route, which stretched nearly 6 kilometers. Roads were closed to ensure safety, and ambulances were on standby for anyone in distress during the long march.
Historically, the statue of Jesus Nazareno was brought to the Philippines from Mexico in 1606 by Spanish missionaries. According to tradition, it survived a fire during its journey, which is seen by many as a miraculous sign. Church historians explain that the statue’s dark color results from the mesquite wood it is carved from, rather than the fire itself. Many believers interpret its survival through numerous hardships, including World War II bombings, as a reflection of its special powers and significance to the faithful.
