The small, but handsome image of the young SAN JUAN APOSTOL is a family heirloom from the Familia Santos of Porac, led by Leon Santos, a planter and businessman. Family lore has it that the image was originally owned by a local Chinese who gifted it to the Santoses. The image was inherited by Leon's son Isidoro Ponce Santos, whose overseas-based children now contributes the funds for his upkeep, including procession expenses.
The San Juan image is just 3 feet tall, with articulated arms. In this version, San Juan has carved, brown-painted hair, that falls gracefully down his nape and shoulders. Over his stiff collared top, he wears a tunic of green with a red, shawl-like drape on his shoulders. He is topped with a brass halo and shown holding his attributes: a feather quill and a book.
For years, it was a regular participant in the annual Lenten processions of Poblacion, Porac, Pampanga, until 2000. His entry is preceded by his symbol as an evangelist, a carved figure of an eagle, which has the ability to gaze directly at the sun, representing the divinity of Jesus.
 |
| Last procession appearance of San Juan, 2000 |
As San
Juan was the smallest religious image in the procession, the Santoses decided
to pull it out and caused a new, taller image to be made, to match the size and proportions of the other
Lenten santos.
MANY THANKS TO MR. JERRY PUNZALAN SAGMIT for the photos and information.
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