MANILA, Philippines—The devotion to the Black Nazarene strengthens Filipinos’ faith amid the “trying times”, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Thursday as millions flocked to the streets of Manila to take part in the Black Nazarene annual procession.
In a message, Duterte said: “The cross is not a symbol of defeat but of victory, and by his wounds, we have been healed.”
“This is the strong and powerful meaning of the image of Nuestro Padres Jesus Nazareno to our people and to our country’s history.”
According to Duterte, who once drew fierce criticisms for calling God “stupid”, the devotion to the Nazareno “continues to strengthen our faith amidst trying times.”
“The stories of conversion and miracles surrounding this important occasion attest to the richness of our religious and cultural heritage,” Duterte noted.
“As we move in the procession with the image of Christ in our midst, may we all be inspired to lead our nation towards greater progress, where everyone gets an equal chance for an improved quality of life,” he added.
The President likewise asked the devotees to” learn the virtues of compassion and selflessness as we do our part in nation-building.”
Duterte has repeatedly lambasted teachings of the church and its priests who have criticized the spate of killings in his administration’s brutal drug war.
Around six million devotees are expected to the still ongoing procession of the image of the Black Nazarene from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church.