8-M Catholics prepare for Black Nazarene

Up to 8-M devotees join the annual procession of the Black Nazarene, a 17th-century mulatto image of Jesus Christ, which Filipinos closely relate to and is believed to cause miracles. Held on January 9, the procession in Manila, which will culminate at the Quiapo church, brings together devotees from all walks of life, including politicians and celebrities. Last year’s celebration was a cause for worry in the face of a supposed terrorist threat, prompting government to shut down cell phone services in the area then. The police and the military have given assurances this won’t be necessary in this year’s celebration. Over 3,000 cops will be deployed to secure the procession area.

Read the full story on Rappler