“I hope China will ease up on us, they cannot seize everything as theirs,” said Espinocilla, who was wearing a maroon T-shirt printed with the face of Jesus Nazareno. “It is ours, not theirs.

MANILA, Philippines — Jesus Nazareno devotees wish for many things—healing, graces, safety, and good fortune. Others, to pass the exam or attain a profession. But for a senior high school ...