Religion

Philippines gears up for Black Nazarene procession after 3 years of COVID cancellations

Bangkok, Jan 4 (EFE).- Philippine authorities have finalized security arrangements for the highly anticipated Black Nazarene procession, one of the world’s largest Catholic celebrations set to return after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over 15,000 police officers will be deployed to ensure the security of the event in Manila, which is expected to draw more than two million participants.

The revered image of the Black Nazarene, housed in the Quiapo Basilica — one of the country’s most important Catholic churches — will traverse the streets of the capital on Jan 9.

Organizers have reiterated that it is strictly “prohibited to board” the carriage carrying the figure, as many parishioners attempt to touch it believing it brings good luck.

Filipinos believe the image of the Black Nazarene can work miracles. Since it arrived in the country, it has survived the fires that destroyed the Quiapo church, two earthquakes, floods and even the bombings of World War II.

Organizers said 15,200 police officers will be in place to secure the event.

As one of the largest processions globally, the event spans several hours due to the slow pace of the religious figure moving through the throngs of people.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared Tuesday a holiday in Manila to provide residents with a “full opportunity to participate and enjoy” the procession.

The carving, dating back to the 16th century and arriving in Manila on May 31, 1606, on a ship from Mexico, is said to have caught fire near the archipelago.

Legend has it that the heat of the flames gave the Christ its characteristic dark color.

However, another version attributes this distinction to the Mexican sculptor’s desire to imprint the work with his own skin tone.

The Philippines and East Timor are the only countries in Asia where the majority of inhabitants follow Catholicism. EFE nc-ssk

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