Devotees claim hearing wheel damage on Andas during Traslacion
Devotees climbing the Andas while it passes Carlos Palanca Street during Traslacion on Friday, Jan. 9. (Photo courtesy of Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN)
Some devotees along the Traslacion route claimed they heard what sounded like damage to the wheels of the Andas carrying the image of Jesus Nazarene as the procession passed through Carlos Palanca Street on Friday, Jan. 9.
Witnesses said they heard a loud cracking sound near the Andas, prompting concerns that one of its wheels may have broken amid intense crowd pressure.
“Akala namin gulong ng Andas ang nasira (We thought the wheel of the Andas had broken),” one devotee said.
The reports surfaced as the procession experienced slowdowns and temporary halts, adding to delays that devotees and observers said could place the 2026 Traslacion on track to match or surpass records for the longest procession in recent years.
Despite the reports, no visible damage was immediately confirmed, and the Traslacion continued moving forward.
As of posting time, Quiapo Church officials have not issued an official statement confirming whether the Andas sustained any wheel damage.
The Andas used for Traslacion 2026 had undergone structural upgrades, including a four-wheel system, steering mechanism, and braking system, aimed at improving stability and safety during the procession.
Authorities and church marshals urged devotees to remain calm and follow instructions, emphasizing that sudden crowd movement increases risks for both devotees and those handling the Andas.
The Traslacion of Jesus Nazarene, one of the country’s largest religious gatherings, draws millions of devotees annually and places extreme pressure on equipment and personnel throughout the route.
Officials said monitoring of the Andas continues as the procession advances, with safety teams on standby.