MANILA, Philippines — The procession of the Andas of the Poong Hesus Nazareno is once again testing the limits of time, endurance, and faith, as church officials announced that it may take more than 24 hours before the revered image finally returns to Quiapo Church. According to the Quiapo Church administration, the Andas spent nearly six hours traversing Arlegui Street on Friday afternoon alone, a striking illustration of the sheer scale of devotees crowding the route.

As of the latest update, the procession has already stretched to about 17 hours, yet it has only gone slightly beyond the halfway point of its journey back to the Quiapo Church. Thousands of barefoot devotees continue to press forward, many enduring exhaustion, heat, and limited space, all driven by personal vows, prayers of gratitude, or pleas for healing and hope. The faithful are also awaiting the arrival of the Andas at the Minor Basilica of San Sebastian for the traditional “Dungaw,” a deeply symbolic moment that further heightens the spiritual intensity of the event.

Beyond the logistical challenges and delays, the prolonged procession invites reflection on the enduring power of faith in Filipino culture. In an age of speed and convenience, the willingness of millions to wait for more than a day—sometimes in discomfort and uncertainty—speaks to a form of devotion that transcends practicality. Critics may question the risks and disruptions involved, while devotees see the sacrifice itself as part of the prayer. As the Andas slowly advances toward Quiapo Church, one question lingers in the hearts of observers and believers alike: what is it about this shared act of suffering and hope that continues to unite millions, year after year, despite the long and uncertain journey? (Larawan: TV Patrol)