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TRADITIONAL NAZARENO PROCESSION DRAWS 500,000 DEVOTEES ON GOOD FRIDAY

Apr. 06, 2026 07:36 PM

Quiapo, Manila – A traditional procession of the Jesus Nazareno was held late in the evening of Maundy Thursday, April 2, 2026, to commemorate the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the way to Calvary. The solemn event officially began at 11:33 PM, drawing an estimated 500,000 devotees who took part in the annual Holy Week tradition.

The procession lasted for 13 hours, 18 minutes, and 37 seconds, according to the Quiapo Church Command Post. The andas entered Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno at 12:51 PM on April 3, 2026, marking the end of its long and physically demanding journey through the streets of Quiapo.

Despite the massive turnout, this year’s Semana Santa procession was generally peaceful. A minor disruption occurred along Arlegui Street when the rope attached to the andas snapped, briefly slowing down the movement of the procession. The situation was further affected by the large number of devotees eager to hold and pull the rope, causing delays in the procession’s pace. However, once the procession passed through the narrow streets, the flow gradually improved and returned to normal.

Notably, no casualties or fatalities were reported this year—something the Church considers a significant blessing and a cause for gratitude.

One of the most significant highlights of the event was the traditional “Encuentro”, or the meeting between the Mary and Jesus Naqzareno. This sacred moment took place at Plaza del Carmen, where devotees witnessed a solemn reenactment of a key moment in catholic tradition.

The Encuentro is inspired by the Fourth Station of the Cross, where Mary meets her son Jesus on the way to Calvary. In this moving scene, the Sorrowful Mother sees Christ carrying the cross, symbolizing a silent exchange of love, sorrow, and unwavering faith amid suffering.

To ensure peace and order, more than 3,000 police personnel from various districts of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) were deployed to secure both the departure and the entire duration of the procession. Their presence helped maintain safety amid the massive crowd of devotees.

Throughout the event, participants expressed deep faith and devotion, with many walking barefoot as part of personal vows and acts of sacrifice. Despite the scale of the gathering, safety protocols were observed, and a total of 397 devotees received first aid assistance during the procession.

The annual procession once again highlighted the enduring devotion of Filipino Catholics, reflecting a profound sense of spirituality, sacrifice, and unity during the observance of Holy Week.

 

 

 

Kristan Mark Bernardo HDN-NPJN Media Writer