Devotees started flocking to the Quirino Grandstand in Manila for the traditional “pahalik” which starts at 7 p.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2024.
According to Jonathan Andal’s report on Super Radyo dzBB, several devotees lined up as early as 11 p.m. on Friday and have now been waiting for over 12 hours.
Devotees of different generations – kids, Gen Z’s, and senior citizens – said it was part of their sacrifice for the occasion.
Others brought umbrellas and mats as they waited in the sunshine. Some also brought snacks and water.
Several roads in the area, particularly T.M. Kalaw, had been closed to traffic.
Meanwhile, authorities strengthened security in the area to maintain peace and order.
On Friday, Vonne Aquino reported on “24 Oras” that devotees would only be allowed to wipe their handkerchiefs or hand towels on the image as kissing the image of the Black Nazarene was still prohibited.
Despite this, many were still willing to make the sacrifice just to touch the image.
In 2021, the traditional pahalik was prohibited due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It was changed to “pagpupugay” during which devotees were only allowed to look at the Black Nazarene. When the pahalik returned in 2023, devotees were allowed to touch the Black Nazarene using a towel or handkerchief.
On January 9, the Feast of the Black Nazarene will be celebrated.
The Traslacion – a procession from the Quirino Grandstand to the Quiapo Church of the 400-year-old black image of Jesus Christ – is one of the traditional activities, along with the pahalik and the blessing of Black Nazarene replicas, of the feast. — DVM, GMA Integrated News
