As people gear up for the annual procession of Jesus Nazarene in the Minor Basilica (Quiapo Church) at Quiapo, Manila, thousands of devotees from all walks of life bear witness to the holy figure's great impact.
Every January 9th, the Feast of Jesus Nazarene is celebrated through the traslacion, where the figure is transferred from Intramuros to Quiapo Church. Devotees brave the crowd in Quiapo Church in hopes that Jesus Nazarene will answer whatever they pray or wish for.
Some of the country’s known figures are among the devotees dedicated to displaying their faith, showing their profound connection with Jesus Nazarene. In preparation for Traslacion 2025, we gathered a list of some of the country’s celebrated figures who have continued to commemorate the religious tradition.
Coco Martin
The star of FPJ’s Batang Quiapo and Ang Probinsyano braves the crowds in Quiapo Church as a testament to his faith. Among the million devotees of Jesus Nazarene is Coco Martin, taking part in processions and offering his prayers to Jesus Nazarene.
His connection with the tradition was influenced by his grandmother who was also a devoted follower. His strong sense of faith pushed him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, despite all odds.
In 2007, Coco had the chance to touch the face of the Nazarene, signaling the consistency of his showbiz career.
Angeline Quinto
After winning ABS-CBN’s “Star Power: Search for the Next Female Pop Superstar,” Angeline Quinto highlighted how opportunities in her career came flooding in. The OPM singer’s long-time dream of becoming a singer was fulfilled, thanks to her devotion to Jesus Nazarene.
Despite the challenges that came her way, Angeline has continued to persevere, frequenting Quiapo Church.
In April 2024, Angeline tied the knot with Nonrev Daquina at the Quiapo Church. As devout Catholics, the couple chose the Minor Basilica. The church had long been close to Angeline’s heart because she was born and raised in Sampaloc, Manila.
Aiai Delas Alas
Before the global pandemic, the “Queen of Comedy” was a regular goer of the religious event.
In 2020, Aiai attended the traslacion and performed for the devotees at the Quirino Grandstand. Before her performance, she gave a short statement on trusting the Lord, and the importance of being patient. She highlighted God’s “perfect time” in fulfilling one’s prayers.
Noli de Castro
In his fourth year of college, Noli and his family relocated to a street near the iconic Minor Basilica, where he would be invited to participate in the annual procession. Although he could not fully comprehend the essence of the religious event, he decided to embrace the tradition.
According to the veteran news anchor, he had developed a habit of stopping by the church before heading home. He offered prayers to the Nazareno and participated in the annual procession.
In every decision he had to make in his career, Noli said that he consulted first with Jesus Nazarene.