PCG to deploy up to 300 personnel for Feast of Black Nazarene
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will deploy up to 300 personnel for the celebration of the Feast of Black Nazarene, including the famed procession of the revered image of the Black Nazarene or “Traslacion,” on Jan. 9.
The annual religious event is scheduled on Jan. 9, and is expected to draw millions of devotees to Manila. The PCG said it is prepared to augment personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Manila City local government to secure the religious event.
According to PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab, the initial deployment will consist of 200 to 300 personnel who will be positioned in key areas including the Quirino Grandstand, Jones Bridge, Ayala Bridge, and the vicinity of Quiapo Church.
“We have additional personnel for force augmentation, as needed,” she said.
The deployment includes medical responders, K9 units, and search and rescue teams.
It also covers specialized units such as Explosive Ordnance Disposal forces, Special Operations Groups, Civil Disturbance Management teams, and Deployable Response Groups.
These units are tasked to provide crowd management support and ensure rapid response to emergencies or possible maritime-related incidents during the procession.
“Close coordination with the AFP, PNP, and Manila City LGU will be maintained to ensure seamless interagency operations in safeguarding the millions of devotees expected to participate in Traslacion 2026,” Cayabyab said.
The Philippine Coast Guard also urged the public to stay alert and cooperate with authorities to help maintain peace, order, and safety throughout the event.
The PNP earlier announced that around 18,000 police forces will be deployed for the Feast while the AFP has yet to provide details of its security plans as of writing.