Devotees flocked to Quiapo Church on Friday, hours before the "Walk of Faith" Feast of Black Nazarene — over 20,000 crowds were estimated since 4 am.

Quiapo Church reminded people of the strict implementation of wearing face masks.

Devotees are also advised to sanitize and practice social distancing to avoid being a superspreader event as there are 1 million devotees expected to attend.

However, the Manila Police District has given a 5-million crowd estimate for the Walk of Faith which was condemned by the Spokesperson of the Feast Fr. Earl Valdez calling it 'overblown'.

"Siguro naman po masyadong overblown ang 5 million. Estimated lang po natin ay aabot po tayo ng milyon. Dahil wala namang imahe, hindi naman siguro natin mararamdaman yung impression na may kaguluhang nangyayari," he said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Services in Manila is continuously conducting cleaning operations around the church in preparation for the 'Walk of Faith' on Sunday, January 8 at 2 am.

On Jan. 7, masses for the feast will start at midnight.