05 Jan 2024 | 05:40 AM UTC
Philippines: Increased security, transport and business disruptions certain at events marking Feast of the Black Nazarene nationwide through Jan. 9
Tight security, localized disruptions certain at Feast of the Black Nazarene events in the Philippines, especially Manila, through Jan. 9.
Events marking the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene (Traslacion) will take place across the Philippines, especially in Metro Manila, through Jan. 9. The key procession will occur in Manila City, starting at Quirino Grandstand 06:00 Jan. 9 and culminating at Quiapo Church at approximately 22:00 Jan. 9. Smaller activities will begin Jan. 6 at Quirino Grandstand; masses will be held every hour at Quiapo Church from 15:00 Jan. 8 to 23:00 Jan. 9. Large accompanying events could also occur in churches within Metro Manila, including Church of Santa Cruz, Nazarene Catholic School, and San Sebastian Church. Major cities, including Cebu and Davao, will probably also host programs at churches. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared Jan. 9 as a special non-working day in Manila City to facilitate the procession; more than 2.5 million devotees are expected to join the event. The events are likely to pass peacefully.
Heightened security and localized transport and business disruptions are certain during the events, especially in Manila. Authorities will deploy at least 15,000 security personnel and erect barricades around Quiapo Church and its surrounding roads as a precaution. Officials announced a ban on firecrackers, guns, liquor, and sailing in Manila Bay and along Pasig River on Jan. 9. Increased petty crime is possible during the event. While no security threats to the event have been reported, police may utilize mobile phone signal jammers during the event to facilitate security measures. Health response teams will deploy to various locations along the procession route, including the National Museum of Fine Arts, Philippine Normal University, San Sebastian Church, and Quinta Market, to provide emergency medical services.
Authorities have announced several road closures from 21:00 Jan. 8 through at least the evening of Jan. 9. Affected roads include Bonifacio Drive from Anda Circle to P. Burgos Avenue, Roxas Boulevard from Katigbak Drive to UN Avenue, Taft Avenue from UN Avenue to P. Burgos Avenue, and Quezon Boulevard from Fugoso Street to Quezon Bridge.
Avoid event sites due to increased security measures. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions near event sites. Closely guard valuables in crowded areas. Heed all official advisories and remain cooperative if stopped by authorities for security and health checks.
Traslacion, an annual procession of the 400-year-old statue of the Black Nazarene, is one of the world’s biggest shows of Catholic devotion. The Black Nazarene is a statue of Jesus that was carved in Mexico and arrived in the Philippines in the early 1600s. Many Catholics believe that the icon has healing properties and typically attempt to touch or kiss it during the procession. This year, authorities have called on devotees to strictly keep on their face masks and refrain from physical contact with the religious figure due to COVID-19 concerns.
