Filipino celebs pay tribute to Black Nazarene
True to his title as the ‘Batang Quiapo,’ Coco Martin, star of the ongoing series Batang Quiapo, traces his deep devotion to the Black Nazarene.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/COCO MARTIN
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True to his title as the ‘Batang Quiapo,’ Coco Martin, star of the ongoing series Batang Quiapo, traces his deep devotion to the Black Nazarene.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/COCO MARTIN
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/NOLI DE CASTRO
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/ANGELINE QUINTO
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/MCCOY DE LEON
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/GISELLE SANCHEZ
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/mrandmrsfrancisco
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/christopher de leon
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/aiai delas alas
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/renee salud
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/tina paner
Walang hanggang pasasalamat Mahal na Poong Jesus Nazareno! ¡Viva, Poong Jesus Nazareno!
That’s the line that echoes across Manila every January as millions of Filipinos unite in a remarkable display of faith during the Feast of the Black Nazarene—including Filipino celebrities who join the celebration, blending their lives of fame with their devotion to the sacred image.
Known for its miraculous powers, the Black Nazarene symbolizes hope, perseverance, and the shared struggles of the Filipino people. Its centuries-old blackened image found at Quiapo Church—believed to have survived fires and earthquakes—stands as a testament to resilience, a virtue deeply embedded in Filipino culture.
This devotion transcends social boundaries, uniting devotees from all walks of life, including some of the country’s most celebrated figures. Drawn to the Nazareno for guidance, healing, and gratitude, these celebrities prove that faith truly knows no bounds.
Here’s a look at some Filipino celebrities and their Black Nazarene stories whose unwavering faith hasbeen profoundly shaped by their devotion to the Black Nazarene.
True to his title as the “Batang Quiapo,” Coco Martin, star of the ongoing series Batang Quiapo, traces his deep devotion to the Black Nazarene back to his childhood — a faith nurtured by his grandmother’s unwavering influence. Despite facing hardships, he never stopped praying for guidance during the annual Traslacion. Reflecting on his struggles, he once said, “Lagi ko lang ipinagdadasal na sana magkaroon ako ng trabaho na magiging daan para mabuhay at matulungan ko ang pamilya ko.” Today, he credits his blessings and success in the entertainment industry to the Nazareno’s guidance, stating, “Higit pa sa hiniling ko ang binigay Niya sa akin.”
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Veteran broadcaster Noli de Castro’s devotion began in college when he lived near Quiapo Church. Despite initially joining the processions out of curiosity, his faith deepened over time. He shared, “Ang hiningi ko lang ay programa sa radyo, pero binigyan niya pa ako ng programa sa telebisyon.” Noli credits the Nazareno not just for his media success but also for guiding his major life decisions, including entering politics.
Singer-actress Angeline Quinto grew up in Sampaloc, Manila, surrounded by a community devoted to the Black Nazarene. She fondly recalls participating in processions with her adoptive mother, Mama Bob. “Ang ipinagpepray ko lang noon ay magkaroon ako ng regular na trabaho sa pamamagitan ng pagkanta,” Angeline shared, attributing her breakthroughs in the entertainment industry to her devotion.
Kapamilya actor McCoy de Leon recently brought his daughter last year to the Feast of the Black Nazarene to share his faith. “Wala akong masabi kundi ‘Salamat Poong Nazareno,’” McCoy wrote, expressing gratitude for the blessings in his life. He saluted his fellow devotees for their steadfast faith, adding, “Viva Poong Nazareno!”
Host and comedienne Giselle Sanchez considers herself an “accidental devotee.” After experiencing a painful illness, she turned to the Nazareno for healing. “Nagdasal ako sa Kanya noon na sana mawala na ang nararamdaman ko... at natanggal siya,” Giselle shared. Since then, she has quietly supported Quiapo Church projects, choosing to keep her devotion personal yet meaningful.
The celebrity couple Melai Cantiveros and Jason Francisco have been vocal about their devotion. In 2018, they were spotted attending mass during the Feast of the Black Nazarene, showing their deep gratitude for the blessings they’ve received as a family.
Veteran actor Christopher de Leon is a regular at the Feast of the Black Nazarene. His devotion is deeply rooted in his gratitude for the Nazareno’s guidance, which he believes has brought him and his family countless blessings.
Philippine Comedy Queen Ai-Ai delas Alas is not only a Marian devotee but also a follower of the Black Nazarene. Her active involvement in various religious communities reflects her deep faith and gratitude for the guidance and blessings she attributes to her devotion.
Renowned designer Renee Salud started his devotion during his college years, praying for opportunities to help his struggling family. “Naglalakad ako ng paluhod para magdasal,” he shared. Through his prayers, he found success, crediting his career in fashion to the Nazareno’s blessings.
Singer Tina Paner has been a steadfast devotee, frequently visiting Quiapo Church to pray for strength and guidance.
