Marcos urges Filipinos to find strength and unity during Feast of Jesus Nazareno

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. encouraged Filipinos to find strength and unity during the Feast of Jesus Nazareno on Thursday, hoping it would foster a sense of harmony among devotees.

Marcos emphasized the significance of carrying the image of Jesus Christ bearing the cross as a symbol of devotion for Filipino Catholics over 400 years, highlighting its role in inspiring hope and compassion among devotees.

The President urged participants in the Traslacion procession to extend kindness and empathy to those around them while commemorating the event with solemn reverence.

Vice President Sara Duterte also called on Catholics to remember God's enduring love during the Feast of Jesus Nazareno, urging them to participate with 'solemn reverence and gratitude'.

As of Thursday morning, approximately 119 devotees sought medical assistance from the Philippine Red Cross due to health issues such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, and dizziness during the event.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez praised the perseverance and dedication of devotees, reminding them of the power of faith in overcoming life's challenges.

The Traslacion began at 4:41 a.m. when the image left Quirino Grandstand in Manila and will end at Quiapo Church, with police reporting that devotees climbing up the carriage are slowing down the procession.