Millions of Filipinos line up to receive an ash cross on their foreheads as they mark Ash Wednesday.
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A priest, minister or lay worker traces the sign of the cross with consecrated ash, beginning the 40 day Lenten season in the largely Christian country.
The ritual is simple and public, often held in packed churches and even in open spaces.
The ashes come from palm branches blessed on Palm Sunday the year before. They are burned, mixed with holy water and exposed to incense.
The gesture serves as a reminder of repentance and the approach of Easter.
