Manila: Malaca±ang assured the public that government agencies are on full alert for Friday's Traslacion 2026, one of the country's largest annual religious gatherings that usually draws millions to Manila's streets to join the annual procession of the Black Nazarene. In a media briefing in Malaca±ang Wednesday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered public safety agencies to keep the event peaceful and orderly.
According to Philippines News Agency, 18,212 uniformed personnel will be deployed across key locations during the Traslacion. Devotees can expect increased police presence at the Quirino Grandstand, along the entire procession route, and at Quiapo Church, the final destination of the image of the Black Nazarene. PNP Chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., instructed officers to remain alert, composed, and humane while serving the public.
Marcos has declared Friday, Jan. 9 a special non-working day in the city of Manila in observance of the Feast of Jesus Nazareno. Additional security measures include 'no-fly' zones near the event route and the deployment of cellphone signal jammers as preventive measures. Meanwhile, the DILG reminded participants to avoid bringing sharp objects, fireworks, glass containers, and firearms, in line with the gun ban in the City of Manila.
The government said the measures aim to ensure a peaceful, safe, and meaningful Traslacion for millions of devotees.
