The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has issued a stern reminder to the public that drone usage will be prohibited along the Traslacion route during the Feast of Jesus Nazareno on January 9. This measure is part of a broader security strategy to maintain peace and order during the religious event. NCRPO chief Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin emphasized that the route has been designated as a no-fly zone to prevent any potential disruptions.
The procession, which is a significant part of the feast, will commence at the Quirino Grandstand and follow a detailed path through various streets of Manila, concluding at Quiapo Church. In addition to the no-fly zone, the Philippine Coast Guard has also established a no-sail zone near the Quirino Grandstand from January 6 to 10 to further secure the area.
After extensive planning and preparation, Aberin expressed confidence in the readiness of the NCRPO and its partner agencies to ensure a safe and solemn celebration. Over 14,000 NCRPO personnel, along with reinforcements from other regions and agencies, have been deployed to manage the event. Additionally, 1,300 officers from the Police Regional Office 3 have been assigned to the Quirino Grandstand to oversee the traditional ‘pahalik’ and manage entry and exit points in Metro Manila.
The ‘pahalik’, where devotees kiss the image of Jesus Nazareno, was scheduled to start at midnight on Tuesday but began earlier on Monday night due to a large number of devotees at the venue. The send-off ceremony for the deployed personnel was led by PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil at the Quirino Grandstand on Monday.
Last year’s Traslacion attracted 6.5 million devotees, and this year’s event is anticipated to draw even larger crowds. The celebration will begin with a Fiesta Mass at midnight on January 9, followed by the Traslacion procession.