Thousands of devotees flocked the streets for a Catholic procession in the Philippines.

Throngs of locals donning yellow colours took part in the annual Traslacion, or 'transfer' parade, in Naga City, Cebu province, on September 8.

Religious fanatics were seen elbowing their way through the sea of bodies to touch the sacred image of 'Our Lady of Penafrancia,' the region's patroness also known as 'Ina' or 'mother', which was being transported to the Naga Cathedral in the city.

The image is believed to hold miraculous powers, including healing the sick.

In a statement, the Naga City local government said nearly a million people had attended the two mile long procession.

A spokesman said: 'As per the official assessment conducted by the Joint Operations Center (JOC), the final crowd estimate for this year's Traslacion procession reached an astonishing 950,000 devotees gathered to catch a glimpse of our beloved Divino Rostro and Ina.'

The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country following more than 300 years of Spanish rule. The Catholic church still wields a powerful influence in the nation's politics, society and culture.