2 additional deaths reported as Traslacion marks historic halt
Officials of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno address the media during a press conference as the Traslacion continues on Saturday, Jan. 10.
The Quiapo Church reported two additional death cases during the ongoing Traslacion of Jesus Nazarene on Saturday, Jan. 10, bringing the total number of fatalities linked to this year’s procession to three, including a photojournalist who died earlier.
The two latest deaths occurred during the procession itself, officials said, as millions of devotees continued to take part in the annual religious event.
Earlier in the day, the Traslacion also marked a first in history when officials from the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno ordered a temporary halt to the Andas at San Sebastian Basilica, following the traditional Dungaw, at around 4:35 a.m. The procession later resumed and continued toward Quiapo Church.
Health authorities said that more than 1,700 injury cases have been recorded so far, mostly involving heat exhaustion, dizziness, fainting, and minor injuries. Of these, 29 patients are currently being closely monitored in medical facilities.
Medical teams from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Manila local government remain on high alert, with emergency response stations deployed along the Traslacion route and hospitals placed on Code White Alert.
Officials again appealed to devotees to remain calm, avoid sudden crowd surges, stay hydrated, and immediately seek medical assistance if they experience symptoms of exhaustion or injury.
The Traslacion of Jesus Nazarene is among the largest religious gatherings in the country, drawing millions of devotees each year and requiring extensive coordination among church authorities, the city government, and national agencies.
Authorities said updates will be released as more verified information becomes available.