Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula celebrates the midnight vigil Mass in honor of Jesus Nazareno at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 9, 2025, which marks the start of the annual Traslacion. Maria Tan, ABS-CBN News 

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Thursday called on Filipinos to reflect on the sacrifice of Christ as Filipino Catholics observed the annual Feast of Jesus Nazareno.

In a message, the Philippine leader expressed solidarity with the millions of Nazareno devotees, highlighting the annual procession’s profound role in uniting Filipinos in devotion.

“It is this historic tradition, founded in great devotion, that puts into our mind the strength that allows us to find harmony in our faith as a people. Truly, the carrying of the Black Nazarene and His own cross reminds us of the great sacrifice our Lord and Savior went through in His life,” Marcos Jr said.

“Moreover, it also speaks of the immense power and compassion of God who walks with us and hears our prayers, especially in our time of need.”

Traslacion 2025 begins

Marcos noted that the Feast of Jesus Nazareno, which brings together millions of devotees to the streets of Manila, is a testament to the Filipinos’ unwavering solidarity amid challenges.

“Let us remember that we are all called to hurdle the challenges that test our resolve with faith and grace as well as to reach out to those around us who need our kindness and empathy,” he said.

“May this day fortify in every devotee who joins the procession--whether in person or in spirit a deeper bond with the Almighty and a higher purpose in serving others. I am confident that we are able to epitomize the example of the Nazarene in our daily walks in this world as hope bearers, peacemakers, and builders of society who will change their respective communities with one good deed at a time.”

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Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte urged Catholics to commemorate the Feast of Jesus Nazareno with “solemn reverence and gratitude for God’s enduring love for us”.

“The Black Nazarene is a manifestation that we will never face the challenges that come our way alone — because God is constantly guiding us, walking with us, and carrying the cross for us on the way to salvation,” she said.

Duterte said Filipino devotion to Jesus Nazareno was a testament to “profound trust in God’s miracle”.

“Our devotion to the Black Nazarene is a testament to our profound trust in God’s miracles that have become the spring that gives us the strength, courage, and the inspiration to be resilient as we hold fast to our faith and overcome the challenges coming our way,” she noted.

The country's second-in-command also underscored the importance of showing humility and mercy. 

“We are also called to show humility, kindness, and mercy to everyone in need, even to those who persecute us,” Duterte added.

She urged the Filipino faithful to pray for healing, wisdom, and guidance in renewing faith and contemplating man’s mission as God’s children.

“Let us also continue to pray for our nation and for our fellow Filipinos, especially those who are in need, the sick, and the dying,” she also noted.