MANILA - Thousands of Jesus Nazarene devotees once again filled the streets of Manila in a solemn display of faith and devotion on Good Friday.

The Manila Police District deployed over 3,000 police officers throughout the city to ensure the safety and security of the attendees.

"Katulong din natin iyong other agency katulad ng NCR command, PCG, BFP, NDRRMO, at marami rin dito iyong ating mga Hijos na tumutulong sa atin," said Police Major Philip Ines, MPD spokesperson.

This year’s procession followed a shortened traditional route, unlike in 2024 when street constructions forced a longer path.

“Main reason diyan ay para maagang matapos. Kasi as we all know, mainit ngayon. So, mas maagang matapos, mas maigi at mas safe sa mga tao," said Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan, rector of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazarene. 

"To think prusisyon pa ito, magkakadikit ang mga tao, mas tataas pa from the actual temperature dito sa siyudad ng Maynila,” he added.

Licuanan explained that preparations were more thorough this year. However, despite the changes, the procession still lasted over 11 hours, just like last year.

To improve safety, the cross carried by the Nazarene image was slightly shortened to prevent devotees from climbing onto the “andas.” 

Among the devotees who joined the religious procession is 61-year-old Antonina Samson who has been taking part in the religious tradition for the past five decades.

Samson, who spent the night at Plaza Miranda, joined neighbors from Novaliches, Quezon City in walking barefoot to the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazarene in Quiapo as part of her personal vow.

In keeping with her yearly devotion, she waited patiently for the return of the image of the Nazarene, carried in the 'andas', which arrived back at the church at 10:45 a.m. on Good Friday, more than 11 hours after it was brought out at 11:20 p.m. on Maundy Thursday.

“Simula noong bata pa ako, ngayon ay 61 na ako, dinadala talaga ako ng nanay ko rito. Kasi noon, talagang sakitin ako. Ngayon, gusto ko lahat ng apo ko makatapos sa pag-aaral, magkasundo kaming lahat ng magkakapatid. Pero nangyari na rin po, kahit na imposible ag nangyari,” said Antonina Samson.

Devotees tried to climb the andas with the image of the Jesus Nazareno. The carriage was passing through Carlos Palanca Street in Manila on its way back to Quiapo Church. Agatha Gregorio, ABS-CBN News

Despite the scorching heat and the physical toll of the procession, devotees like Samson continue to show unwavering faith and devotion, believing that their sacrifices will be met with blessings.