Manila: Organizers of the Feast of Jesus Nazareno have urged devotees to strictly adhere to the guidelines set for all activities leading up to the annual procession, known as Traslacion, on January 9. Quiapo Church rector Fr. Rufino Sescon Jr. emphasized the importance of following these rules to ensure a safe and organized ‘Nazareno 2025’ feast.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nazareno 2025 adviser Alex Irasga announced that the traditional “pahalik,” or veneration of the Jesus Nazareno, will commence at Rizal Park’s Quirino Grandstand at midnight on January 7. The activity will continue until January 9, even after the start of the Traslacion, which will proceed from the grandstand to the minor basilica on Quezon Boulevard.

The route for the pahalik is planned to traverse the usual area of Roxas Boulevard via Kalaw Extension and will be monitored by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Devotees are encouraged to sanitize and wipe the image but are discouraged from kissing the Jesus Nazareno.

Participants in the Traslacion are allowed to bring small, single-hand replicas of the Nazareno, transparent raincoats or ponchos, shoes and slippers, small cameras, wheelchairs, single-seat portable chairs, small flashlights, small candles, clear plastic garbage bags, and waste bags. However, climbing the andas, or carriage, carrying the image of the Nazareno is discouraged, and participants must not block the procession route or withhold the ropes attached to the andas.

Additionally, there is a prohibition on carrying medium to life-sized religious images, banners, andas, deadly weapons, pyrotechnics, drone cameras, selfie sticks, professional cameras, large bags, blankets, portable appliances, liquefied petroleum gas cylinders, stoves, and tents. Other prohibited items include umbrellas, alcoholic beverages, smoking and vaping items, laser pointers, large metal objects, scooters and skates, vehicles and bicycles, heavy meals, plastic and glass bottles, food sticks, pets, and jackets.