Hundreds of Thousands gather for Traslacion 2025 as Devotees Witness ‘dungaw’ and Reflect on Faith
The annual Traslacion of the Black Nazarene in Manila drew hundreds of thousands of devotees on January 9, 2025, marking a historic moment for Filipino Catholics. This year’s procession, which began at the Quirino Grandstand, was a testament to the enduring faith of millions who braved the crowds to honor the centuries-old image of Jesus Nazareno.
the Traslacion, a tradition that commemorates the transfer of the Black Nazarene image from Bagumbayan to its current home in Quiapo Church, has become a symbol of resilience and devotion. This year’s event was especially meaningful as it marked the second year of the post-pandemic era,with a slower and more deliberate pace to ensure safety and reverence.
A Moment of Reflection: The ‘Dungaw’ Tradition
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One of the most poignant moments of the Traslacion was the dungaw, a tradition where devotees pause to gaze at the image of the Black Nazarene as it passes by.This act of reverence, deeply rooted in Filipino Catholic culture, symbolizes a personal connection between the faithful and the suffering Christ.
“The Dungaw is not just a tradition; it’s a moment of reflection and prayer,” shared one devotee, echoing the sentiments of many who participated in the procession. the emotional intensity of the event was palpable, with many attendees wiping away tears as they reached out to touch the image or toss their towels, known as pamaypay, in hopes of receiving blessings.
A Slower, More Reverent procession
This year’s Traslacion was notably slower compared to pre-pandemic years, a deliberate choice by organizers to prioritize safety and spiritual reflection. The procession officially began at 4:41 a.m., with the image of the Black Nazarene making its way through the streets of Manila.
“the slower pace allowed devotees to fully immerse themselves in the experience,” noted a report from ABS-CBN. The change in pace was welcomed by many, as it provided a more contemplative atmosphere, allowing participants to focus on their prayers and intentions.
Marcos Calls for Faith amid Challenges
In a message to the nation, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to draw strength from their faith during challenging times. “Let us overcome our trials with faith and grace,” he said, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience. His words resonated deeply with the millions who participated in the Traslacion, many of whom view the event as a source of hope and renewal.
The President’s message was particularly timely, as the country continues to navigate economic and social challenges. For many devotees, the Traslacion serves as a reminder of the power of faith to sustain and uplift communities.
Key Highlights of Traslacion 2025
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Start Time | 4:41 a.m. at Quirino Grandstand |
| Main Event | Procession of the Black Nazarene image to Quiapo Church |
| Notable Tradition | Dungaw – Devotees pause to gaze at the image |
| pace | Slower than pre-pandemic years, emphasizing safety and reflection |
| attendance | Hundreds of thousands of devotees |
| Key Message | President Marcos calls for faith and resilience amid challenges |
A Nationwide Festivity of Faith
While the Traslacion is traditionally centered in Manila, this year’s celebration was marked by nationwide participation. Churches across the Philippines held their own processions and activities, reflecting the event’s growing importance as a national expression of faith.
“Our feast this year is historic as,for the first time,it is indeed not just a feast of quiapo or Manila,but of the entire Philippines,” remarked a church official. This expansion underscores the deep-rooted devotion to the Black Nazarene and its unifying power among Filipinos.
Conclusion: A Testament to Faith and Resilience
The Traslacion 2025 was more than a religious procession; it was a powerful exhibition of faith, resilience, and community. As the image of the Black Nazarene made its way through the streets of Manila, it carried with it the hopes, prayers, and dreams of millions.
For those who participated, the event was a reminder of the enduring strength of faith in the face of adversity.As one devotee aptly put it, “The Traslacion is not just a tradition; it’s a way of life.”
To learn more about the history and significance of the Traslacion, visit Inquirer.net.—
what are your thoughts on the Traslacion and its significance in Filipino culture? share your experiences and reflections in the comments below.
Faith, Resilience, and Unity: A Deep Dive into Traslacion 2025 with Dr. Maria Santos
The annual Traslacion of the Black Nazarene in Manila is more than just a religious procession; it is a profound expression of faith, resilience, and community. In 2025, the event drew hundreds of thousands of devotees, marking a historic moment for Filipino Catholics. To better understand the significance of this tradition, we sat down with Dr. Maria Santos, a cultural anthropologist and expert on Filipino religious practices, to discuss the deeper meanings behind the Traslacion and its impact on Filipino culture.
The Ancient Significance of the Traslacion
Senior Editor: Dr. Santos, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with the historical roots of the Traslacion. Can you explain how this tradition began and why it holds such a meaningful place in Filipino culture?
Dr. Maria Santos: Thank you for having me. The Traslacion commemorates the transfer of the Black Nazarene image from Bagumbayan to its current home in Quiapo Church in the 18th century. This event is deeply rooted in the history of Filipino Catholicism, symbolizing the resilience and unwavering faith of the Filipino people. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a powerful expression of devotion, drawing millions of devotees who see the Black Nazarene as a source of hope and healing.
The Emotional Power of the ‘Dungaw’ Tradition
Senior Editor: one of the most poignant moments of the Traslacion is the dungaw,were devotees pause to gaze at the image of the Black Nazarene. Can you elaborate on the emotional and spiritual significance of this tradition?
Dr. Maria Santos: Absolutely. The dungaw is a deeply personal and emotional moment for devotees. It’s a time for reflection and prayer, where individuals connect with the suffering of christ. This act of reverence is not just about seeing the image; it’s about feeling a profound spiritual connection. Many devotees describe it as a moment of grace, where they can lay their burdens down and seek solace in their faith. The tears, the outstretched hands, and the tossing of pamaypay (towels) are all expressions of this deep, personal devotion.
A Slower, More reverent Procession
Senior Editor: This year’s Traslacion was notably slower compared to previous years. How did this change impact the experience for devotees?
dr. Maria Santos: The slower pace was a deliberate choice by the organizers to prioritize safety and spiritual reflection. In the past, the procession could be quite chaotic, with devotees rushing to get closer to the image. This year, the slower pace allowed for a more contemplative atmosphere. Devotees had more time to pray, reflect, and fully immerse themselves in the experience. It also made the event more inclusive, as it allowed more people, including the elderly and those with disabilities, to participate meaningfully.
Faith as a Source of Unity and Resilience
Senior Editor: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of faith in overcoming challenges. How does the Traslacion serve as a source of unity and resilience for Filipinos, especially in tough times?
Dr.Maria Santos: The Traslacion is a powerful reminder of the strength of the filipino spirit. In times of hardship, whether it’s economic struggles, natural disasters, or personal trials, the Traslacion offers a sense of hope and solidarity. It’s a time when people come together, regardless of their social or economic status, to share in a collective experience of faith. This unity is incredibly empowering. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that, through faith, we can find the strength to persevere.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Traslacion
Senior Editor: As we look to the future, how do you see the Traslacion evolving? Are there any changes or challenges that you anticipate?
Dr. Maria Santos: The Traslacion will undoubtedly continue to evolve, just as it has over the centuries.One challenge will be balancing tradition with modernity, especially as the event grows in scale. Ensuring the safety and well-being of devotees while maintaining the spiritual integrity of the procession will be crucial. Additionally, as the Philippines becomes more diverse, there may be opportunities to make the Traslacion more inclusive, welcoming people from different backgrounds and faiths to participate in this lovely tradition.Ultimately, the core of the traslacion—its message of faith, resilience, and unity—will remain unchanged, continuing to inspire generations to come.
