The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has announced plans to deploy over 14,000 officers to ensure security during the upcoming Feast of the Black Nazarene in Manila on January 9. Acting director Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin detailed that the force would consist of 12,168 officers dedicated to securing the event’s area and route, supplemented by an additional 2,306 personnel as a support force.
This deployment follows the successful execution of the Philippine National Police’s Ligtas Paskuhan campaign, which aimed to maintain safety during the Christmas and New Year period. From December 16, 2024, to January 1, 2025, the NCRPO had previously deployed 10,984 officers, effectively managing peace and order with only minor incidents related to firecrackers reported.
Aberin emphasized the effectiveness of heightened police presence and proactive anti-crime measures, which he said significantly deterred criminal activities. He noted that a similar strategy, with slight adjustments, would be employed for the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
The traditional route for the Traslacion, the procession of the Black Nazarene, will remain unchanged. Starting from the Quirino Grandstand, the procession will navigate through a series of streets including Katigbak Drive, Padre Burgos Street, Ayala Bridge, and several others before concluding at Quiapo Church. The Traslacion is the centerpiece of the annual religious celebration, culminating in a midnight Fiesta Mass at the grandstand on the feast day.