Huge crowds have come out on the streets of the Philippine capital Manila to honour an iconic statue known as the Black Nazarene.<br /><br /> Here we explain the statue’s history and why it attracts such fierce devotion.<br /><br /> What happens?<br /><br /> On January 9 each year, millions of people gather to celebrate the statue, including a spectacular religious procession which sees devotees carry a replica of the Black Nazarene across Manila.<br /><br /> What is the Black Nazarene?<br /><br /> It’s a life-sized statue of Jesus Christ holding his cross, normally housed in Quiapo Church in Manila.<br /><br /> What do devotees believe?<br /><br /> The statue has become “an emblem of passion, struggle and faith” for Catholics in The Philippines, according to the Catholic News Agency.<br /><br /> Devotees believe the statue has mystical powers that can atone for sins and cure illnesses.<br /><br /> The Philippines is home to around 80 million Catholics, or 80 percent of the population, a legacy of its time as a Spanish colony.<br /><br /> What is the Black Nazarene’s story?<br /><br /> It is thought the statue was made in Mexico before being transported to The Philippines in 1606.<br /><br /> Nazarene’s dark colour is attributed to a fire on the ship that was carrying it to Manila.<br /><br /> This episode – and the fact it has survived other fires, earthquakes, floods and bombings – has helped to reinforce its mystical powers among devotees.<br /><br /> What happens during the procession?<br /><br /> The procession, which dates from the 17th century, is known as the Translacion.<br /><br /> It sees the statue transported on a chariot – it’s pulled by ropes and pushed from behind – through the streets of Manilla.<br /><br /> Some devotees try to get as close as possible, often clambering on their neighbour’s shoulders to try and touch the statue.<br /><br /> Others follow the 6.5-kilometre procession route in bare feet, seen as a sign of regret for sins committed.<br /><br /> Photo gallery<br /><br /> Hover over the photo and click the arrows to explore a selection of images from the procession.<br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> What’s happening this year?<br /><br /> Up to 18 million people are expected to take part in this year’s procession and the festivities surrounding it.<br /><br /> There are fears it could be the target of a terrorist attack.<br /><br /> It comes after Philippine security forces killed a foreign national and his female companion on Saturday (January 7), who were suspected of being connected to a militant group supporting ISIL.<br />No Comment | euronews: watch the international news without commentary | http://www.euronews.com/nocomment/
