Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said it would deploy officers in civilian attire along with 14,000 others to secure the celebration of the Feast of Quiapo and Jesus Nazareno on Jan. 9. The officers would be at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park starting Tuesday, where the ‘pahalik’ (kissing) of the Nazareno image would be held, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said in a press briefing in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

According to Philippines News Agency, the deployment includes 12,168 police officers for area and route security and 2,306 who would serve as augmentation force. Control points will be set up along the procession route, beginning at the Quirino Grandstand. The police officers and other security forces will be stationed at the front and end of the procession, with mobile police officers on motorcycles providing additional security. Officers in civilian clothing will mingle with participants to observe and report any concerns to uniformed officers.

Traslacion, the procession of devotees accompanying the Nazareno from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church, usually lasts over 20 hours. Fajardo stated that no serious threats have been identified, but contingency plans are in place to address any disruptions. Signal jamming will be considered based on security assessments on the day of the feast.

The PNP contingent includes medical and quick-response units to assist injured devotees and the Highway Patrol Group to manage traffic and implement rerouting schemes. Transparent bags and raincoats will be permitted due to expected rain, but devotees are advised to avoid bringing valuables and large amounts of cash. The public is urged to follow security protocols and avoid bringing prohibited items like bladed objects and backpacks to ensure smooth inspections.

The PNP expects approximately 6.5 million participants for this year’s Black Nazarene feast, which will begin with a Fiesta Mass at midnight on Jan. 9, followed by the Traslacion.