MANILA – Devotees of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo Church were saddened by the cancellation of the Traslacion grand procession for 2021 but expressed understanding that such move was necessary because of the prevailing health crisis.
Every January 9, millions of devotees of the Black Nazarene flock to Quiapo Church barefoot to join the procession and try to hold the “andas”.
Most of them do these gestures as part of their “panata” or vow to show gratitude for answered prayers.
Others, meanwhile, believe the miraculous Black Nazarene will listen to their prayers and grant them.
Most Catholic faithful also express the belief that praying can be done anywhere.
“Yes, Prayer could be done even at home for our safety,” said Zeny Concepcion.
Leachim Nhoj Ojepse also expressed the same sentiment.
“It’s all for the best! People can show their devotion in some other way. Safety is of utmost importance in this time of the pandemic,” he said.
The cancellation of the Traslacion in 2021 is a first in its history.
The procession of the Black Nazarene or the “Poong Itim na Nazareno”, a life-sized statue of a suffering Jesus fallen under the weight of the cross, passes through a 6.5-kilometer route from the Luneta Grandstand to the Minor Basilica in Quiapo.
The cancellation also got negative feedback from some devotees who said it is too early to know if the Covid-19 pandemic would still be around by next year.
In response, Jeff Ortizduldulao has asked for understanding from other devotees.
“Huwag po sanang may magagalit kung walang traslasyon sa darating na pista ng Mahal na Poong Nazareno. Magdasal ng may puso at pananalig, huwag magagalit (Please don’t get angry if there will be no traslacion of the Black Nazarene. Pray with all your heart and don’t get angry),” he said.
On Oct. 23, Domagoso announced the cancellation of the grand procession after a meeting with officials of the Quiapo Church.
He said the decision was made to ensure that public health protocols will be implemented on the day of the annual Traslacion.