Manila: A Quiapo Church official anticipates a surge in the number of devotees participating in the 10-day Feast of the Jesus Nazareno, including the Traslacion or grand procession, on Friday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nazareno 2026 spokesperson Fr. Robert Arellano indicated that while there is no precise estimate, attendance at activities in Quiapo Church and the Quirino Grandstand is expected to surpass that of 2025. Fr. Arellano mentioned during a press conference that the Church is prepared to welcome millions of devotees eager to join the celebrations. He highlighted that, based on past experiences, attendance continues to grow.
In 2025, approximately 8.4 million devotees participated in the Feast of the Jesus Nazareno from December 31, 2024, at the start of the Novena Masses, through January 9, 2025. Fr. Arellano emphasized that the Church is not focused on the numbers, stating that the effectiveness of prayer is not contingent on physical presence in Quiapo Church or at the Quirino Grandstand. He added that sincere prayer at home holds significant value.
Fr. Arellano also noted that true devotion is not solely defined by physical presence, especially when church guidelines are not adhered to. Meanwhile, Manila Mayor Francisco 'Isko' Moreno Domagoso announced that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has certified the major bridges along the Traslacion route as safe.
Mayor Moreno explained that the certification followed a formal inspection request from the city government for the bridges in Manila. The City Engineering Office confirmed that the DPWH has issued the certification. The DPWH - National Capital Region evaluated Quezon Bridge, Carlos Palanca Bridge, Ayala Bridge, and Arlegui Bridge 1 based on the 2025 Road and Bridge Inventory and Assessment, rating them in 'fair' condition.
The DPWH assured that railings and barricades on the bridges are properly installed and secured, with no obstructions on bridge decks and pedestrian pathways that could pose safety risks. For Quezon Bridge, ongoing rehabilitation works, including temporary shoring installation, are being conducted according to safety and engineering standards. The DPWH stated it has 'no objection' to the use of the four bridges during the Traslacion, provided that no vehicles are allowed along the route during the procession.
