The Catholic faithful in Manila marked Ash Wednesday with long lines stretching outside Baclaran Church as they waited to receive the traditional ash cross on their foreheads.

The ashes, made from blessed palms used in the previous year's Palm Sunday celebrations, are applied by a priest, minister, or layperson.

The ritual, which includes the use of Holy Water and incense, signals the start of Lent, a 40-day period of reflection and penance for Christians.