Preparations for the Feast of Jesus Nazareno continue, with the “pahalik,” a key event in the celebration, set to begin Jan. 7 at Quirino Grandstand in Manila’s Rizal Park.
Organizers said the “pahalik” will commence on Tuesday, leading to 30 Fiesta Masses from Jan. 8 at 3 p.m. until 11 p.m. on Jan. 9, the feast day.
“Pahalik” literally means kissing but some devotees also just touch or wipe their handkerchiefs and other pieces of cloth on the image of Jesus Nazareno.
Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula will preside over the traditional “Misa Mayor” at midnight on Jan. 9.
The celebration officially began on Dec. 31 with a Novena Mass, followed by the blessing of replica images and estandarte (banners) by Quiapo priests on Jan. 2.
The feast’s highlight is the Traslacion, a grand procession of the revered image of Jesus Nazareno accompanied by millions of devotees from Quirino Grandstand to the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno in Quiapo.
Last year’s Traslacion was attended by 6.5 million devotees from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m, according to the Quiapo Church.
Earlier, church Rector Fr. Rufino Sescon noted that the feast is now a nationwide celebration following its declaration as a national liturgical feast in 2024.
Malacañang has declared Jan. 9 a special non-working day in Manila.
“Sana ay magtulungan tayo — maging mapagpasensya at magpakita ng malasakit sa isa’t isa — upang maging mas makabuluhan at payapa ang ating pagdiriwang (Let us help each other out – be patient and compassionate on others – for a more meaningful and peaceful celebration),” Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna said in a statement.
