Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — A sea of yellow and maroon dominated the route of procession of the Black Nazarene replicas on Saturday.
Many devotees flocked to Quiapo in Manila to have their Black Nazarene replicas blessed in front of the Quiapo Church.
They showed their unwavering faith as they energetically chanted while carrying replicas of the Black Nazarene on their shoulders — their sacrifice evident as they walked barefoot from the start of the procession in Plaza Miranda.
Aside from the image blessing, participants patiently waited for Quiapo Church’s own replica of the Black Nazarene. It was brought out of the church past 3 p.m., where many devotees tried to touch the image with their hands or through white towels.
The Black Nazarene is believed to be miraculous.
The police estimated 20,000 to 30,000 participants joined the procession.
Prior to the procession, National Capital Region Police Office Chief Superintendent Oscar Albayalde arrived in Quiapo to check on the security measures there. He said everything is peaceful, despite the reported threat on this year’s Traslacion.
Albayalde added there is no imminent danger, but they cannot discount the possibility of any retaliatory actions from rebel groups amid the government’s military offensives in Mindanao.
Read: PNP Chief: There is serious security threat on Black Nazarene feast
Authorities are expecting about millions of devotees to participate in the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Monday.
