The Quiapo Church announced that starting January 2025, the image of the Black Nazarene will no longer be called "Itim na Poong Hesus Nazareno" (Black Nazarene) and will be simply referred to as "Poong Hesus Nazareno (Jesus Nazarene)."
The church officials explained that the decision stems from historical considerations.
They said the origin of the term "Black Nazarene" remains unclear, and the church wishes to honor the true name of the Lord Jesus by removing the word "Black" and returning to the original "Poong Hesus Nazareno."
Meanwhile, the Quiapo Church will also be called as Basilika Menor at Pambansang Dambana ni Jesus Nazareno (Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno).
They said it is part of a broader effort to deepen the faithful’s connection with the image, reflecting both reverence for the figure of Christ and respect for its historical and spiritual significance.
The adjustment came just ahead of the 2025 Feast of Jesus Nazareno, one of the most anticipated religious events in the country.