Devotees in Iloilo City joined the annual procession for the Feast of the Image of Jesus of Nazarene, otherwise referred to as “Poong Hesus Nazareno,” past 5 a.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

The procession of the image was done in the vicinity of the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño de Arevalo Parish in Iloilo City.

The blessing of the image, as well as the devotees, followed the procession shortly. 

In Bacolod City, a Vigil Mass was offered at the San Sebastian Cathedral on January 8, 2025 awaiting the arrival of the replica of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno from the National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno Quiapo Church of the Archdiocese of Manila.

At 4 a.m. on January 9, 2025, a procession of the replica was carried out on major roads in the city.

Angelo Perol, a young devotee, said he has nurtured a devotion for the “Nazareno” because he feels the presence of the Lord through the image.

“Siyempre masaya kasi ang Hesus Nazareno gumagawa ng himala sa Quiapo at madami ang nagdedebosyon sa kanya. Ang kanyang mga himala ang dami,” Angelo said.

Another devotee, Prince Arroyo, said that he believes in miracles.

“Masaya ako dahil nakapunta dito ang Nazareno para i-share ang kanyang himala sa Bacolod. Nagseserbisyo kami para sa Diyos at sa kanya. Nakakapagod pero may mangyayaring himala,” Prince said.

As for Mina Villarico, also a devotee, it is important to keep the faith because she believes that only faith saves man from eternal damnation.

“He loves us. It’s nice kasi nandito sa Redemptorist. Ang faith mo, magiging stronger. Ang faith ng tao, grabe; ang testimonies, grabe. Jesus is here everyday, tumutulong sa atin and He is a living God,” Mina underscored.