In a moving display of devotion, Quiapo Church in Manila held a midnight procession of the revered image of Jesus Nazareno in observance of Good Friday, drawing large crowds of Filipino faithful.
The procession began at 12 a.m., with many devotees walking alongside or awaiting the return of the sacred image while carrying replicas. The event was mostly peaceful, according to the Manila Police District (MPD), which reported no major incidents.
“We are grateful that no significant disturbances have occurred,” said MPD spokesperson Police Major Phillip Ines. Some attendees, however, required minor medical assistance for ailments such as headaches, dizziness, and hypertension due to the dense crowds and warm weather.
Quezon Boulevard, one of the main procession routes, was filled with litter post-event, highlighting the need for proper crowd management and cleanup efforts.
Quiapo Church has a full schedule of Holy Week rites. At 12 noon, the Siete Palabras—a reflection on the seven last words of Jesus—will be held. At 3 p.m., the Veneration of the Cross will take place, followed by the Santo Entierro procession at 5 p.m., featuring images of Mater Dolorosa and San Juan Apostol.
To ensure safety, around 12,000 police officers and force multipliers from various agencies have been deployed for the day’s religious activities.