Thousands of devotees attended the Holy Mass in Quirino Grandstand on Saturday, Jan. 7, in celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

People went emotional during the mass as it has been two years since the last gathering in the Grandstand.

In his homily during the 12 am mass, Fr. Hans Magdurulang said that the world has witnessed Flipino's profound faith for the Black Nazarene in Luneta.

"Nasaksihan ng buong mundo sa Luneta, hindi lang ang dami ng pila ng mga deboto. Nakita ng mundo hindi lamang ang palakapakan at ang hiyawan ng mga deboto. Kundi, dito sa Luneta nasaksihan ng buong mundo ang matibay at malalim na pananampalataya natin sa Mahal na Poong Hesus Nazareno," he said.

After the mass, 'Pagpupugay,' where people were allowed to wipe and touch the feet of the Black Nazarene, officially started. This replaced the traditional 'Pahalik' or kissing of the image.

On Friday, devotees have already flocked to Quirino Grandstand to avoid long lines for the Nazarene.

Over 500 police were deployed at the Quirino Grandstand to provide safety and security.