Millions gather in Manila for annual procession with revered statue of Jesus

CV NEWS FEED // Millions of Filipino Catholics this week participated in a procession through their country’s capital in a demonstration of devotion for a beloved life-size statue depiction of Jesus carrying His cross.

According to Arab News, the annual Jan. 9 procession in Manila, Philippines, commemorates the relocation of the statue, known as “Jesus the Black Nazarene,” that took place in 1787, when the statue was brought to Quiapo Church from the colonial Spanish capital of Intramuros. The procession is known as Traslacion, or “transfer.”

Approximately 80% of the Philippines’ population identifies as Catholic, according to Arab News. Many people who have a devotion to Jesus the Black Nazarene believe that the statue of Jesus carrying His cross is miraculous, partly because it has withstood many disasters.

Augustinian Recollect friars brought the historic statue from Mexico to the Philippines in 1606, according to Holy Family Catholic Church. On its way to the country, a fire broke out on the ship and scorched the statue black. The statue has since survived two more fires, once in 1791, and another in 1929. It also withstood earthquakes in 1645 and 1863, and the bombing of Manila in World War II. 

Police estimated 6 million attendees would be present at the Jan. 9 procession, according to Arab News. Asia News reports that an estimated 8 million people attended.

In a Jan. 8 X post, Catholic journalist Sachin Jose posted footage of the procession: 

Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula celebrated Mass before the procession. In his homily, he urged the faithful to follow Jesus’ commandments and reject vice, according to Reuters.   

“Let us live up to His commandments, embrace His teachings and follow His example,” Cardinal Advincula said. “It is better to follow the Beloved Lord.”