Preparations are underway for the Feast of the Black Nazarene, with the Manila Police District (MPD) outlining measures to maintain peace and order.
These include full police deployment starting January 8, a citywide gun ban, and road closures.
The announcement was made on January 3 during a joint press conference with feast organizers at the Nazarene Catholic School in Quiapo, Manila.
Traslacion 2025 Route
The annual procession of the Black Nazarene will follow the same route as previous years, ensuring a familiar journey for millions of devotees.
This year’s celebration carries the theme, “It is better to obey than to sacrifice for those who hope in Jesus” (1 Sam. 15:22).
To prepare for the event on January 9, devotees are encouraged to save or screenshot the route map for reference.
Detailed Route
- From Quirino Grandstand:
- Right to Katigbak Drive (left side).
- Right to Padre Burgos Street via Finance Road.
- Straight to Ayala Bridge.
- Left to Palanca Street.
- Right to Quezon Boulevard.
- Right to Arlegui Street.
- Right to Vergara Street.
- Left to Duque de Alba Street.
- Left to Castillejos Street.
- Left to Farnecio Street.
- Right to Arlegui Street.
- Left to Nepomuceno Street.
- Left to Concepcion Aguila Street through Carcer Street.
- Right to Hidalgo through Plaza del Carmen.
- Left to Bilibid Viejo via Gonzalo Puyat Street.
- Left to J.P. De Guzman Street.
- Right to Hidalgo Street.
- Right to Quezon Boulevard through under Quezon Bridge.
- Right to Villalobos Street through Plaza Miranda.
- Ending Point:
- Quiapo Church, the final destination for the Black Nazarene image.
Devotees are reminded to familiarize themselves with the route to avoid confusion during the procession.
Stay safe and remain vigilant as we come together in faith and unity.
Full Deployment and Support Teams
MPD Director PBGen. Arnold Thomas Ibay revealed that more than 14,000 officers from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be on duty for the event.
“This is a week-long activity, and events are already ongoing in Quiapo.
By the evening of January 8, the entire team will be ready,” Ibay explained in Filipino.
Police from neighboring regions and the Special Action Force will bolster the manpower.
In addition, 1,000 personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be stationed in strategic locations.
Col. Romel Recinto shared that troops will be positioned at the Quirino Grandstand and entry and exit points in Manila.
A drone will also be deployed for aerial monitoring.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will implement a “no-sail zone” within a one-kilometer radius of the Quirino Grandstand.
This restriction will begin on January 6 and last until January 10.
The PCG will provide over 1,000 personnel, including medical teams and bomb detection units.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) will dispatch fire trucks and specialized units for medical and hazardous materials support.
These teams will be stationed in key areas starting January 6 during the traditional “Pahalik,” where devotees kiss the image of the Black Nazarene.
Guidelines for Devotees
Organizers have reminded devotees to follow rules designed for everyone’s well-being and to maintain order.
Feast adviser Alex Irasga emphasized the importance of safety and shared guidelines for the procession.
Among the reminders:
- Avoid climbing the “andas” (carriage) or pushing other participants.
- Use transparent bags and bring only necessary items.
- Refrain from using umbrellas, caps, or hoodies that may obstruct visibility.
- Keep the surroundings clean and dispose of waste in designated bins.
- Those who are elderly, unwell, or bringing children should stay in safer areas by the sidelines.
Devotees may throw handkerchiefs to be wiped on the image of the Black Nazarene.
The tradition of tugging the ropes of the andas will continue, but participants are urged to do so calmly.
Quiapo Church Rector and Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Jun Sescon Jr. encouraged everyone to act with discipline.
“This year’s theme reminds us to express our faith through obedience, fostering a sense of unity and respect,” he said in Filipino.
Returning Traditions
The “Traslacion” resumed in 2024 after a three-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Last year, over 6.5 million devotees participated in the procession, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Organizers are expecting a similar turnout this year as Filipinos reconnect with this cherished tradition.
The Black Nazarene image, a revered representation of Jesus Christ carrying the cross, is believed to bring blessings and healing to those who venerate it.
Road Closures and Gun Ban
Road closures will be implemented along the procession route and in nearby areas.
A gun ban has also been imposed to promote safety throughout the celebration.
Authorities have urged participants to plan ahead and avoid restricted areas.
More updates on alternative routes will be shared soon.
A Call for Discipline and Reflection
As the Feast of the Black Nazarene approaches, organizers and law enforcement are appealing for cooperation and respect.
This celebration is more than a display of faith; it is an opportunity to practice unity, care, and selflessness. Devotees are encouraged to carry these values as they participate in this much-loved tradition.