President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. called on Catholic Faithfuls to look back on the country's "deep rootedness" in overcoming trials and tribulations in lieu of the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Monday, January 9 .

"As the Catholic Faithful expresses their devotion to the Black Nazarene, let us also remember its deep rootedness in our Filipino culture of overcoming the great trials and tribulations in our midst. Indeed, it is through our faith that we can conquer the storms that loom ahead of us and bring forth a life filled with grace and steadfastness," the President said in his message.

"May the image of Jesus Christ inspire us to center our existence around love, hope, and compassion as we open up ourselves to others and the world during these extraordinary times. Together, let us embody these values as we write a new chapter in our nation's narrative so we can altogether usher in an era of peace and prosperity for all," he added.

Marcos Jr. earlier declared Jan. 9 as a special non-working day in Manila in celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

On the dawn of Sunday, more than 90,000 devotees took part in the ‘Walk of Faith’ as part of the culminating activities of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, according to Quiapo Church.

It started at 1:30 am and lasted for about 2 hours, from Quirino Grandstand in Luneta to Quiapo Church. Devotees brought candles and small images of the Black Nazarene while praying and singing worship songs.

The activity temporarily replaced ‘Traslacion’ for this year, due to the pandemic.