The annual Traslacion procession, marking the transfer of the revered image of Jesus Nazareno from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church, commenced at 4:41 a.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025. Fr. Robert Arellano, spokesperson for Quiapo Church, observed a significant improvement in the behavior of the devotees this year. He remarked on their increased maturity and faith, noting that they were much more orderly and less aggressive compared to pre-pandemic years.
The procession, a key event in the celebration of the Feast of Jesus Nazareno, drew an estimated crowd of 133,500 by noon, according to the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO). Both the NCRPO and Arellano reported a peaceful atmosphere with no incidents disrupting the solemnity of the event. Arellano highlighted the quiet and cooperative nature of the attendees, expressing hope that this would continue until the procession reached Quiapo Church.
Security measures were robust, with Manila Police District Director Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay emphasizing the importance of vigilance among the devotees. He encouraged them to report any suspicious activities to the well-deployed police forces, which included 14,500 personnel from various law enforcement and military units.
The Traslacion is part of a series of events celebrating the Feast of Jesus Nazareno, which also includes the traditional ‘pahalik’ or kissing of the image, a vigil Mass, and the Misa Mayor led by Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula. In his homily, Advincula urged the faithful to place their hope in Jesus and to follow His teachings and example, rather than being swayed by material temptations.
This year’s celebration is significant as it is the first time the Feast Day of Jesus Nazareno is being observed nationwide, following its declaration as a national liturgical feast the previous year.