Devotees made themselves comfortable near Quirino Grandstand as they waited for Pope Francis to arrive on Sunday, January 18.
Groups of people huddled together under a makeshift tent to protect themselves from the rain.
Disabled people were among the many who were eager to see Pope Francis.
A couple of men managed to climb a post for a better view of the Pope.
Devotees waves statues of Sto. Niño throughout the day.
Friends hug each other as they reunite after losing each other in the large crowd.
Despite the long wait, the excitement of devotees didn't falter.
Some had brought stools with them so they could sit during the long wait.
After hours of being pelted by the rain, being wet stopped being an issue.
The crowd pointed excitedly when they saw helicopters surveying the area, realizing that the Pope was on his way.
At the request of insistent devotees, one woman brought out her tablet in an effort to give the crowd a closer view of Pope Francis.
Finally, Pope Francis arrived at Luneta, and Catholic devotees started to cheer.
Everyone waved enthusiastically as Pope Francis passed by, although some would admit later on that they did not see him.
The knowledge of being close to the Pope was enough for most to retain their cheer.
Once the Pope was inside the grandstand, the barriers were removed.
The loss of barriers gave people space to jump and dance around.
The crowd merrily cheered when Pope Francis was shown on the large screen.
Once the mass started, those that didn't make it inside the Grandstand settled for watching the Pope through the screen.
People listened avidly as Pope Francis spoke.
The police stood outside Quirino Grandstand to make sure the overexcited devotees didn't cross any lines.
The first aid team was also present in case of emergencies.
Even outside the grandstand, people were cheering for the Pope.
Although it was impossible for the Pope to see them , devotees still waved and raised their Sto. Niño statues in the direction of the Grandstand.
After a while, many decided to leave, having satisfied themselves with a glimpse of Pope Francis.
A child was mournful as she admitted that she wasn't able to see Pope Francis when he passed by.
A group of girls posed for a photo to immortalize their experience.
Even after hours of walking and waiting, the happiness and cheer of devotees were irrepressible.
