Coco Martin still a devotee of the Black Nazarene

MANY things have changed about Coco Martin over the years, except for one: his devotion for the Black Nazarene.

Even before he made a name for himself in showbiz, the action star was already a firm believer of the Roman Catholic faith, particularly the Itim Na Poong Nazareno, for whom he willingly joins a sea of fellow devotees – barefoot and clad in uniform red and yellow shirts – for the annual procession that is the Translacion.

While he unfortunately couldn’t join the feast this year, Coco was glad to have participated in the overnight vigil at the Quirino Grandstand held last Tuesday night instead, having given a hit performance of the Rivermaya classic, “Awit ng Kabataan.”

According to the 37-year-old star, his devotion for the Black Nazarene stemmed from his grandmother’s spiritual discipline.

“Sinasama po ako ng lola ko sa pagsimba po ng Quiapo. Kaya lumaki po ako na ang aking laging pinagdarasalan ay ang Mahal na Nazareno,” he says.

For Coco, it was through this show of hope and faithfulness that his prayers in life were granted, including, among other things, his acting career. (Push)