MANILA – On the Feast of Jesus Nazareno, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to embrace unity, compassion, and faith as they face life’s challenges. Reflecting on the significance of the annual Catholic gathering, he highlighted the strength drawn from the devotion to Jesus Nazareno, a symbol of unwavering faith for over 400 years.

During his message, Marcos emphasized that the image of Jesus Nazareno—depicting Christ carrying the cross—reminds Filipinos of both the sacrifices and compassion that define their shared faith. He urged devotees to extend kindness and empathy to those in need, reinforcing the collective spirit that characterizes the Traslacion (procession).

“Let us remember that we are all called to hurdle the challenges that test our resolve with faith and grace,” Marcos said, encouraging individuals to serve their communities just as the Nazarene exemplifies.

As the procession began at 4:40 a.m. on January 9, the “andas,” or carriage carrying the image of Jesus Nazareno, made its way from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church, with millions of devotees showing their devotion along the streets of Manila.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Red Cross reported providing medical assistance to 119 devotees, with 10 being transported to emergency hospitals.

Ia/mnm

Ni Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — Idineklara ng Lungsod ng Maynila ang fireworks at pyrotechnics ban mula Enero 8 hanggang 9 sa panahon ng Pista ng Itim na Nazareno.

Sa isang memorandum nitong Biyernes, sinabi ni Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan na ang pagbabawal sa paputok ay para mapanatili ang pagiging sagrado ng selebrasyon.

“Whereas, in order to preserve the solemnity of the occasion and avoid danger and injuries to the Black Nazarene devotees, as well as to protect the physical structures within the area where the Black Nazarene will hold procession, and the general environment against incidental fires and other environmental impacts on the use, sale, manufacture and distribution of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices, it is imperative that a ban on firecrackers be imposed on the said event,” ayon sa memorandum.

“Sa panahong ito, ipagbabawal na ang paggamit, pagbebenta, pamamahagi, at paggawa ng mga paputok at iba pang pyrotechnics,” wika ni Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna.

“Therefore, I, Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah ‘Honey’ H. Lacuna–Pangan, MD, FDPS, Mayor of the City of Manila, […] hereby declare a total ban on the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices in the City of Manila specifically on January 08-09, 2024 in order to maintain the sanctity of the celebration and minimize, if not totally avoid, injuries to all who will attend the Feast of the Black Nazarene,” nakasaad pa sa memo ng City Hall.

(el Amigo/MNM)

MANILA — Devotees will not be able to approach or ascend to the level of the Nazarene this year, as emphasized by Fr. Hans Magdurulang, spokesperson for Nazareno 2024.

Magdurulang mentioned that there will be minimal changes in the customary practices during the Feast of the Nazarene on January 9.

“Our observance will follow the traditional approach, a celebration where the image of the Nazarene is prominently displayed atop the carriage because this celebration is not solely about us devotees. Above all, it is about the Nazarene, and we should once again showcase Him to the people,” he stated in a TeleRadyo interview.

“There is still an opportunity for those who throw handkerchiefs, wipe with handkerchiefs. There are 8 individuals on top of the carriage, but they are not enclosed within glass; instead, they are positioned outside the glass, with only their heads visible atop the carriage to ensure a clearer view of the Nazarene’s image, especially for those in distant places and within the confines of their homes,” he added.

According to the spokesperson, an estimated 22 million devotees may participate in the feast.

Magdurulang also issued a reminder for devotees entering the church to bring a face mask and alcohol.

(IAmigo/MNM)

MANILA — To ensure the smooth flow of the upcoming Traslacion procession for the Black Nazarene 2024 celebration, Manila Police District Director Police Col. Arnold Tomas Ibay, and Bro. Bong Grajo spearheaded a comprehensive “Walkthrough” along the designated route. The event, held on Saturday, December 16, 2023, brought together church personnel, government representatives, and key partners involved in the preparation.

As anticipation builds for the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9, the collaborative effort aims to enhance coordination and preparedness among all stakeholders for a successful and secure celebration.

(Report and photography by Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)