Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), has ordered the deployment of thousands of policemen to secure the annual Black Nazarene procession, or Traslacion 2025, on Thursday, Jan. 9.
Marbil said policemen from Metro Manila and other units will be deployed in key areas, including the procession route, high-density locations, and designated entry and exit points while specialized units trained in crowd control will be on hand to maintain order and ensure the smooth flow of participants.
He said the PNP Intelligence Group and Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) will closely monitor any potential physical and digital threats.
“Medical teams and quick-response units will be strategically positioned to provide immediate assistance when needed, while the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) and local traffic enforcers will manage traffic flow and implement rerouting schemes to minimize disruptions for both devotees and the general public,” said Marbil.
Earlier, the National Capital Region Office said that it will be deploying 12,168 officers to secure the event while another 2,306 personnel from other units will act as augmentation force.
Based on the attendance in previous years, millions of devotees are expected to flock to various areas in Manila for the Traslacion.
Marbil said they have already mapped out extensive security preparations to guarantee a safe, orderly, and meaningful event for all participants.
One of them is the implementation of gun ban from Jan. 8 to 11 which was already announced by the Manila Police District (MPD).
“Traslacion is a profound expression of faith and devotion. The PNP is fully committed to safeguarding every devotee, dedicating all necessary resources to ensure peace and order during this sacred occasion,” Marbil said.
But Marbil urged the public to follow security protocols, including avoiding bringing prohibited items such as bladed or pointed objects, backpacks, or any items that may pose safety risks.
He said these measures aim to facilitate smooth inspections and ensure the overall safety of the event.
“We call on devotees and the public to cooperate with security protocols, report any suspicious activities, and prioritize safety. Your vigilance and cooperation are vital to the success of this event,” Marbil said.
“Security is a shared responsibility. Through unity and collaboration, we aim to make Traslacion 2025 a secure and spiritually enriching experience for everyone,” he added.
Marbil said regular advisories will be issued to keep the public informed of safety guidelines and updates regarding the event.