MANILA, Philippines -- Vice President Noli De Castro, a Black Nazarene devotee, wishes that the country will surpass the global financial crunch this 2009.

But De Castro's personal wish to the miraculous image will remain a secret.

"Siyempre isa sa nadagdag yung inaasahang problema sa 2009 [One of my additional prayers is for the expected problem in 2009], the global financial crisis," said De Castro when asked what he was praying for this year.

De Castro, accompanied by Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, said he would still be joining the procession this year.

Meanwhile, De Castro said he was, initially, also not open to the idea of starting the Black Nazarene procession at Quirino Grandstand when it was traditionally being held at Quiapo Church.

"Noong una, medyo hindi dahil nasanay na for so many years sa Quiapo [At first, no, because I’ve gotten used to Quiapo for so many years]," said De Castro.

But De Castro said the safety of the devotees must be considered.

Last year, at least two people were reported killed while scores were injured in a stampede during the procession, which was attended by some three million devotees.