Preparations for the 2026 Traslacion moved forward on Tuesday as the Quiapo Church, together with several government agencies, conducted an early morning walkthrough to assess the route for next year’s procession.

Representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Health (DOH), the Philippine Army, and other concerned offices began their inspection at around 6:30 a.m. on Nov. 25, at the Quirino Grandstand before proceeding toward Quiapo Church.

The pre-event walkthrough is done months ahead of the annual celebration to identify hazards and ensure that the path is safe for the millions of devotees expected to join the procession.

Findings from the inspection will be consolidated into a checklist and forwarded to the responsible agencies for action.

During the assessment, the group noted several issues such as unfinished DPWH roadworks, low-hanging power lines, tree branches extending into the procession path, and waiting sheds that could be used as stepping points by devotees, potentially causing accidents.

Long-parked vehicles and obstructions—often recurring concerns each year—were also flagged.

Agencies involved are expected to carry out the necessary corrections quickly, with some improvements anticipated within the coming week.

Organizers confirmed that the 2026 Traslacion will follow the same route used last year, including the stretch along Ayala Boulevard and the entry into Carlos Palanca Street toward the Quiapo district.

The image of the Black Nazarene will remain inside its protective glass enclosure.

Minor upgrades were also made to the andas, including an enhancement from a three-wheel to a four-wheel support system for greater stability.

Authorities are preparing for a potentially larger turnout in January, following this year’s procession that drew more than 8 million devotees and lasted nearly 21 hours, ending in the early hours of Jan. 10, 2025.

While the number of participants may fluctuate, officials stressed that preparations by both Church and government remain extensive, with the foremost goal of ensuring a safe, orderly, and incident-free event.

Organizers also appealed to public officials and political groups to avoid using the Traslacion as a platform for political messaging, emphasizing that the gathering is a religious celebration focused on devotion and faith.