President Ferdinand Marcos (Photo from official Facebook page of Bongbong Marcos)
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. hopes the Feast of the Black Nazarene will remind people of the sufferings of Jesus Christ.
Marcos expressed his sentiment on Monday on the eve of the Traslación or the Nazarene procession.
“Beyond the extraordinary expressions of reverence that we see on display during this event, the festivities show us the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who willingly offered Himself to make us whole once more,” Marcos said.
The Chief Executive said the occasion is a reminder of God’s mercy and love.
He also urged devotees to see the value of going through trials.
“By working through our struggles and difficulties, we discover our inner strength and resolve, emerging from the pits of darkness and despair with a renewed sense of hope and purpose,” he said.
While the Traslación itself is on January 9 (Tuesday), the commemoration is already in full swing as devotees flock to Manila to pay their respects to the Black Nazarene.
In 2023, over 925,000 people went to see the religious statue.
Now, the number is expected to double with COVID-19 restrictions being eased.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna estimated at least 2 million people are expected to join the event.