ICHCAP

On January 9, 2025, the Black Nazarene procession, one of the largest religious events in the world, took place in Manila, Philippines. This year’s event drew approximately 8 million devotees, marking the largest turnout since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Black Nazarene is a life-sized statue of Jesus Christ brought to the Philippines from Mexico in 1606. It depicts Jesus carrying the cross on his way to Golgotha and is made of mesquite wood, giving it a dark complexion. Locally known as the Traslación—Spanish for "transfer"—the procession commemorates the historic 1868 relocation of the Black Nazarene statue from a church in Intramuros, then the heart of Spanish colonial Manila, to its current home at Quiapo Church.

This year’s procession spanned a 5.8-kilometer (3.6-mile) route, taking nearly 21 hours to complete. Devotees dressed in maroon and yellow participated barefoot to symbolize humility. Believing in the statue`s miraculous powers, they attempted to pull the carriage (Andas) ropes or wipe its cross with cloths. Climbing onto the carriage is prohibited, and the statue has been encased in glass since 2024 to prevent direct contact.

The Black Nazarene procession is far more than a religious ritual—it represents a profound expression of faith and dedication. The Black Nazarene procession has become a significant cultural and spiritual symbol that reflects the blending of Catholic faith, secular traditions, and Filipino heritage.

Reference : https://buly.kr/B7ZKcl3