Thousands of Catholic faithful flocked to the Baclaran in Parañaque on Ash Wednesday, marking the solemn start of the Lenten season, accoridng to a report by RH Jecelle Ricafort.

According to the church’s security department, an estimated 15,000 devotees had already arrived as early as 6:00 a.m.

Church officials expect the number of attendees to exceed 100,000 by the end of the day.

The church was filled to capacity early in the morning, with long lines stretching outside as devotees waited to attend Mass and receive the traditional ash cross on their foreheads — a symbol of repentance and humility.

The first Mass began at 5:30 a.m., followed by another at 7:00 a.m. The final Mass of the day is scheduled at 8:15 p.m., accommodating the steady influx of churchgoers throughout the day.

In the homily of parish priest Fr. Rico John Bilangel, C.Ss.R., he emphasized that the ashes are more than just a symbol and reminded the faithful that they represent a call to humility and genuine conversion.

He added that the ashes are not merely a ritual and what matters most is true change of heart — forgiveness, asking for forgiveness, doing good to others, and helping those in need.

He also encouraged the faithful to make the 40 days of Lent meaningful. Amid the many challenges and uncertainties in today’s world, he stressed the importance of strengthening one’s connection with God.

Amid these times, Fr. Bilangel said that people need a deeper relationship with the Lord. And reminding the congregation that “we are not God; we need God.”

Despite the large crowds, authorities reported no untoward incidents as of this writing, ensuring a peaceful and orderly observance of Ash Wednesday at one of the country’s most visited Catholic shrines.