Around 100 Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel were mobilized to secure devotees who attended the “Walk of Faith” parade on Sunday, Jan. 8, as part of this year’s celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

The PCG contingent was composed of personnel from the Special Operations Group, K9 Unit, Surface Patrol Team, Coast Guard Medical Team, and Area Security.

Moreover, the PCG also utilized eight floating assets such as patrol boats, fast response boats, aluminum boats, and personal watercraft to conduct maritime patrol operation and underwater inspection in Manila Bay and Pasig River, and the maritime areas covered by Jones Bridge, MacArthur Bridge, Quezon Bridge, Ayala Bridge, and the rear portion of the Quirino Grandstand.

Ahead of the Walk of Faith, K9 units swept the Quirino Grandstand to make sure that the perimeter area would be safe from any threat. No untoward incident was reported to authorities although there were around at least 70 devotees who were given first aid after experiencing dizziness or sustaining minor injuries.

According to organizers from the Quiapo Church, around 88,000 people were estimated to have participated in the Walk of Faith, which was held in place of the traditional 'Traslacion' or the procession of the image of the Black Nazarene.

Admiral Artemio Abu, PCG Commandant, placed the agency under a heightened alert from Jan. 7 to 9 for the implementation of strict security measures in critical waters and areas around Manila.

Abu appealed to the devotees to remain vigilant and report to authorities any suspicious person or activities during the celebration.