Black Nazarene's Pahalik Draws 9,404 Devotees

The first day of the traditional pahalik or kissing of the image of the Black Nazarene drew more than 9,000 devotees at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.

- By EVELYN MACAIRAN

In a span of 21 hours, 9,404 people lined up to touch the exposed feet or part of the cross of the Jesus Nazarene, according to the Quiapo Church's Nazareno Operational Center.

The crowd record was from 7 p.m. on Monday until 4 p.m. yesterday.

To avoid spreading viral infections, devotees should not kiss the feet of the Black Nazarene's image, Nazareno 2025 spokesman Fr. Robert Arellano said.

"We cannot stop the devotees... They should just touch the image and wipe their handkerchief on it. Do not kiss the image anymore," Arellano told dzBB.

"Those with handkerchiefs or cloth, make sure that these are clean when you touch the Señor. As much as possible, wash your hands and sanitize," Arellano added.

The pahalik started late Monday following a mass for traslacion volunteers. It was supposed to begin yesterday.

Security measures

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said security measures are in place to ensure the safety of the Nazarene devotees.