Why Quiapo holds a special place in these celebrities' hearts

Black Nazarene devotee Angeline Quinto and Coco Martin
Angeline Quinto and Coco Martin's Instagram
The Black Nazarene of Quiapo has been a source of faith and miracles for countless Filipino devotees, including well-known personalities in the entertainment and fashion industries. As the Black Nazarene procession marks its 419th year, these celebrities share stories of devotion and the unexpected blessings they have received through their faith.
Angeline Quinto
Singer Angeline Quinto grew up in the bustling streets of Sampaloc, Manila, where devotion to the Black Nazarene was a family tradition.
“Nag-start siya kasi lumaki po ako sa Sampaloc. Ang Mama Bob ko at yung buong street namin sa Marzan, may imahe po kami na every year dinadala sa Quiapo Church,” Quinto recalled in an interview.
For Quinto, her devotion led to one of the most significant milestones of her life — winning ABS-CBN’s Star Power in 2011.
“Every Friday and Sunday, andoon po ako sa Quiapo nagdadasal. Bago ako sumali sa Star Power, dasal ko talaga magkaroon ng regular na trabaho sa pagkanta. Nag-try lang ako, hindi ko in-expect na magtutuloy-tuloy. Alam ko po na galing sa Kanya,” she shared.

Angeline Quinto and Husband wedding ceremony in Quiapo church
Angeline Quinto Instagram
Rene Salud
Veteran fashion designer Rene Salud credits his faith in the Black Nazarene for his determination and eventual success in life.
“Parang may feeling ka na nandiyan Siya palagi at ibibigay Niya sa’yo,” Salud said, recalling how he would visit Quiapo Church every Friday to give thanks.
Salud also shared how he walked on his knees as a gesture of faith and gratitude: “Hindi pwedeng hindi ka dadaan sa likod para humalik.”

Rene Salud and Angeline Quinto
Rene Magtibay Salud Facebook
McCoy De Leon
Actor McCoy De Leon is another celebrity devotee who actively participates in the annual Traslacion with his family.
On Instagram, De Leon shared his heartfelt gratitude:
“Maraming salamat po sa lahat, lalo na sa pamilya ko. Ikaw na po bahala sa kanila pag wala po ako. Hindi maiinda ang sakit sa katawan at pagod para masilayan Siya.”
He also expressed appreciation for the strangers who helped him during the procession, saying, “Dito nagpapatunay na kahit hindi magkadugo, magkakaisa para sa pananampalataya.”
