Devotees still join the Black Nazarene feast amid physical challenges

Devotees of the Black Nazarene on Friday continued the annual tradition of “Pista ng Nazareno,” forming a sea of maroon and yellow shirts as the carriage began moving around 4:00 a.m. from Quirino Grandstand.

By the afternoon, the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office estimated around 187,000 people had joined the procession since early morning.

Many attendees have been devotees for years. Some expressed gratitude for blessings received amid life’s challenges, while others sought guidance and help through prayer and faith.

The Garcia family, led by Maricel and Arnold, brought their grandchildren to Quezon Bridge to witness the Black Nazarene. The couple has been devotees for more than 20 years and hopes to pass the tradition on to the next generation.

“Para hanggang sa paglaki nila madala nila yung pananampalatay namin sa Poong Nazareno,” Maricel Garcia said.
She added that her eldest son’s health improved after she became a devotee:
“Simula nung nagkasakit yung anak kong lalakeng panganay, simula nung nag-deboto ako dito, ngayon po hindi na po siya nagkakaroon ng ganon kalala na sakit.”

Arnold said he hopes the family tradition continues even after they are gone and prays for his grandchildren’s health and safety:
“Sana kahit lumipas na ang panahon na wala na kami, tuloy-tuloy parin nila yung pananampalataya namin sa kanya (Nazareno). Kung ano man yung nasimulan namin, ituloy nila yun,” he stated.

Medical teams at first aid stations in front of Quiapo Church reported around 70 devotees received assistance for hunger, dehydration, and elevated blood pressure due to the heat.

On 9 January, Manila’s streets transform as devotees walk barefoot, moving shoulder to shoulder along the 5.8-kilometer route through plazas, bridges, and city roads until reaching Quiapo Church. Many aim to touch or see the image of the Black Nazarene, enduring physical and mental challenges.

Miles, a 29-year-old devotee and member of the LGBT community, described the experience:
“Actually, it’s hard to explain in one word. When you’re there, everything feels lighter. Even with the crowds and chaos, once you touch or see the Nazarene, the feeling is different,” he said.

Fourteen-year-old Enyong, participating for three years, prayed for his family’s well-being. Encouraged by friends, he shared a simple but meaningful hope:
“Sana sumakses.”

During the procession, a young father entrusted his daughter to the crowd so she could see the Black Nazarene, highlighting the devotion of the next generation.