Few displays of faith are as transfixing as Manila's annual Grand Marian Procession. On the first Sunday of every December, candle-bearing acolytes and Blessed Virgin devotees dressed in pure white parade through the cobbled streets of Intramuros, the 16th century walled Spanish fortress, along with brass marching bands trumpeting Christmas hymns. At night, as they pass in front of Manila Cathedral, itself dedicated to Mother Mary, the illuminated floats that carry sacred statues of Our Lady are glowing reminders that despite Manila's many hours of darkness, including the recent biblical floods following tropical storm Ketsana in September, there will still be lights to shine on the Philippines' resilient and spirited capital.
— By Tim Kindseth