Nazareno 2015: Behind the devotion

MANILA, Philippines – Thousans of Filipinos’ take part of the yearly procession, bringing the iconic Black Nazarene to the Quiapo church.

Katerina Francisco asks devotees what compels them to join what some people call a bizarre show of faith.

This year’s Feast of the Black Nazarene has a special meaning for some of its devotees. It comes a week before Pope Francis visits the Philippines for the first time.

For Robert Cabuz, the annual religious gathering is a show of solidarity of the Catholic faithful.

ROBERT CABUZ, NAZARENO DEVOTEE: Bilang Kristiyano, maganda ‘yung mapakita natin ‘yung pagkakaisa natin. Ipakita natin sa kanya na nagkakaisa tayong Pilipino, kung gaano natin kamahal ang kultura natin bilang Kristiyano. (As Catholics, it’s good to show our unity. Let’s show the them that we Filipinos are as one in our love for our Catholic culture.)

The devotees have their own reasons for braving the crowds. These girls say they’re in it for the experience.

 Makikipagsiksikan ka tapos pag naka-akyat ka sa taas, ang sarap ng feeling. (You squeeze your way into the crowd and when you get to reach the icon, it feels good.)

For 69 year old Saturnino Galang, it’s the passing down of tradition.

SATURNINO GALANG, NAZARENO DEVOTEE: Sa ngayon, 69 na ako.  Ito siya na mag-isa, kaya ipagpatuloy niya ang ano ko…pag hindi ko na kaya, siya magpapatuloy. (I’m 69 years old. My grandson will continue doing this when I can no longer do it.)

The reasons may vary, but one thing remains certain: these streets become a sea of yellow and scarlet In a massive show of faith for the ebony image of Jesus Christ.
Katerina Francisco, Rappler, Manila  – Rappler.com