MANILA, Philippines — The Black Nazarene “Traslacion 2014” reached Manila City Hall by noon on Thursday, quicker than the processions of previous years, devotees said.
Nathaniel Caampued, 36, who has been walking since he left home at 2 a.m., said the procession seemed to draw more people this year but was quicker in pace.
Devotees reach the rope of the Black Nazarene carriage along Finance Road going to Manila City Hall. JULLIANNE DE JESUS / INQUIRER.net
He observed that there were many young people participating in the event, making it harder for them to reach the Black Nazarene. However, the procession was moving faster because people were somehow giving way.
Unfortunately, he said the weight of the people caused a crack or what seemed to be damage on the Nazarene’s 8-foot cross.
Caampued, who walked all the way from Project 4 in Quezon City, said he has been participating in the “Traslacion” for 8 years, praying for the health of his family.
Already on his way home when he was interviewed, he said he and other devotees also aided those fainting from the procession, guiding women and children to safer places.
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