The centuries-old tradition of venerating the revered image of the Black Nazarene, known as "pahalik," is set to commence this week, offering devotees a profound opportunity for personal devotion. Organized by the Quiapo Church, this significant pre-fiesta activity will be held at the Quirino Grandstand in the City of Manila, allowing a much larger number of faithful to participate.
Schedule and Venue for the Veneration
The official "pahalik" will start on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 7:00 in the evening. This follows immediately after the Mass for the Volunteers scheduled for 6:00 p.m. The veneration activity will continue non-stop, providing day-and-night access for the faithful, until its conclusion on Friday, January 9.
Church officials emphasized that moving the activity to the Quirino Grandstand makes the image of Jesus Nazareno accessible to a bigger crowd. Devotees will have the chance to kiss the image and touch its cross, expressing their deep-seated faith and personal petitions.
Important Procession and Queue Details
The continuous "pahalik" will pause briefly at midnight on January 9 to accommodate the Misa Mayor (Pontifical Mass). This important mass will be presided over by Balanga Bishop Rufino Sescon.
Organizers have issued specific instructions for the millions expected to attend:
- Entry Point: Devotees must queue at the South Drive or Kalaw Avenue Extension, located directly in front of the Rizal Park Hotel.
- Exit Point: A change has been implemented for this year's event. Participants will now exit back to South Drive, instead of the previously used Katigbak Road in front of the Manila Hotel.
This annual act of devotion serves as a spiritual preparation for the grand and world-famous procession of the Jesus Nazareno, which will take place after the "pahalik" concludes. The Quiapo Church encourages all devotees to observe patience, order, and reverence throughout the three-day event.
