Traslacion 2025: Thousands witness 'Dungaw' ritual amid procession delays

Thousands of devotees witnessed the traditional "Dungaw" at the Minor Basilica of San Sebastian during the Traslacion of Jesus Nazareno.

The image of Jesus Nazareno met his mother Nuestra Señora del Carmen at nearly 6 p.m. at Plaza del Carmen, outside San Sebastian Church, hours later than last year's approximately 3 p.m. meeting.

The delay in the "Dungaw" ritual was attributed to devotees climbing the "andas" (carriage) and the snapping of ropes connected to it.

The Dungaw, also known as La Mirata, is a significant highlight of the procession and its only stop.

Quiapo Church communications coordinator Silgen Frias Cabrito emphasized that the Dungaw is a historic practice between the San Sebastian and Quiapo churches, intended to honor each patron rather than symbolizing the meeting of the Mother and Son at the Cross.

The ritual serves as a symbol of maternal love, inviting reflection and prayer.

The procession officially left the Quirino Grandstand at 4:41 a.m. and is making its way toward Quiapo Church.

As of 2 p.m., an estimated 2.2 million people attended the Traslacion 2025.