A myriad of Catholic devotees joined the Feast of the Black Nazarene, or the “Traslación,” a religious celebration held every 9th of January. One of the largest religious gatherings featuring the profound faith of Filipino Catholics, the event honors the life-sized image of Christ carrying the cross, known as the Black Nazarene or “Poong Nazareno.”

This year’s Traslacion saw a 20-hours-long procession which began from the Quirino Grandstand to the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or Quiapo Church. Devotees join the walk barefooted as their sign of “panata” in the belief that the Black Nazarene has miraculous powers to heal, grant prayers, and improve lives.

The feast also includes novena prayers, masses where devotees kiss and touch the image called “Pahalik,” prior to the procession.

Throughout the procession, people toss towels to the image in hopes of gaining more blessings.

(Text and photos by Elmer Nev Valenzuela)