Today marks the death of enthusiasts who surged through the crowd and fought a stampede battle only to have their towels/ hankies wiped on the icon- The Black Nazarene. Many believe the life-sized wooden statue, brought by Spanish missionaries from Mexico in 1606, holds mystical powers that can cure illnesses or wash away sins. The ship caught fire and the image was burned but survived as a testament to a unique brand of Catholicism that combines folk superstitions in Asia's most populous Christian nation.

Devotees die for what they believe in. People need something to believe in, otherwise we'll all be w/o a backbone. They come every year with prayers, hopes, and faith not just in God alone but with the vague truth of miracles at hand. There are those who come with their own godliness. Claiming they can cure or heal like Jesus Christ, with their followers in maroon or with their own uniforms trailing along.

Policemen and several ambulances were on standby to ensure the safety of the devotees. Around 12:30 p.m., the Black Nazarene was brought out of the church for the parade. Thus, the waves of human flesh began rushing towards the image.

I never joined the procession, but i know i can try and be a good catholic without pushing myself (literally) into a dangerous swarm.

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in other kerengkeng news..

i miss crush ahehehehe icebreaker to sa seriousness ng nasa taas. haha Pero syempre mas miss ko si penguin.. boohoohoo ;(