The statue was first housed by the Augustinian Recollect friars, who had the statue brought over in 1606. The friars heavily promoted devotion to the Black Nazarene, to the extent of gaining Papal approval in 1650.

In the 1700s, the Manila Archbishop transferred the statue to the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo. This move is re-enacted every year by the Quiapo faithful, who stage the procession to honor this auspicious transfer.

In this photo, the male devotees throng the streets, many bearing banners that show what Church group they belong to.