MANILA, Philippines — The carriage carrying the venerated image of the Black Nazarene started its journey to its home in Quiapo Church in Manila early Wednesday morning.
The statue of suffering Jesus Christ started moving out of the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park at around 5 a.m., marking the start of the day-long procession where millions of devotees attempt to touch the sacred image while walking barefoot along the streets of Manila.
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As of writing, the carriage carrying the Black Nazarene reached the Manila City Hall.
Quiapo Church officials earlier estimated that around five million devotees will join the traslacion, which approximately spans 6.1 kilometers.
According to Sen. Richard Gordon, chairman of the Philippine Red Cross, individuals joining the procession reached 1,030,000 as of 9 a.m. He added the PRCprovided medical assistance to 478 people.
Many Filipino Catholics believe the image has miraculous attributes—it can heal sickness, grant requests and help those in need.
This year’s event bears the theme “Hinirang at Pinili Upang Maging Lingkod Niya.” — Gaea Katreena Cabico