DECEMBER 30, 2025 — The annual Traslacion of the Black Nazarene, one of the country’s most fervent religious gatherings, is set to unfold in Manila this January with heightened coordination between church leaders and police officers who are also devotees.

For 2026, the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene confirmed that “hijos-pulis” — uniformed men who share the same devotion — will stand alongside the traditional Hijos del Nazareno to safeguard the procession. Unlike standard police attire, these officers will wear specially designed uniforms bearing the image of the Nazarene.

“Ito ho ay pinasadya na uniporme na ang nakikita ay imahen ng Nazareno at ang nakalagay doon ay sila ang pulis ng Panginoon,” said Alex Irasga, technical advisor of the basilica. 

(This is a customized uniform showing the image of the Nazarene, declaring them as police of the Lord.)

Four hijos-pulis will be stationed directly on the andas carrying the revered image, while others will manage the ropes pulled by thousands of devotees. Minors remain barred from holding the ropes, though designated areas will allow them to join the procession safely.

The Manila Police District emphasized that their presence is meant to reassure, not intimidate. 

“Ang gusto pong maramdaman ng mga tao, ang pulis po nandiyan, para sa seguridad at kapayapaan. We do not want to have the impression na parang mini-militarize natin ‘yong pagdariwang ng procession,” said PLt. Col. June Abrazado.

(“What we want people to feel is that the police are present for security and peace. We do not want to give the impression that the celebration of the procession is being mini-militarized.)

Police have conducted walkthroughs and seminars to prepare for the event, stressing that enforcement will be “mahigpit ngunit may puso” (strict but with compassion), according to MPD spokesperson PMaj. Philipp Ines.

Prohibited items and ordinances

Authorities reiterated that umbrellas, bladed weapons, firearms, firecrackers, and glass bottles are banned. Vendors will be restricted from controlled zones, while vulnerable groups — such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with illnesses — are advised not to join. Manila’s Anti-Balaclava Ordinance also prohibits hats and hooded jackets, though exemptions may apply.

New routes and closures

To ease movement and emergency access, new entry and exit routes have been announced. 

Devotees heading to Quiapo Church may pass through Quezon Boulevard, Carriedo, Villalobos, and Palanca streets, while those bound for the grandstand can take Quezon Bridge, Jones Bridge, McArthur Bridge, and Taft Avenue. 

Road closures will cover Katigbak Drive, Independence Road, Padre Burgos, and several streets near Quiapo.

Ropes of faith, chains of fanaticism

The Traslacion traces its roots to 1787, when the image of the Black Nazarene was transferred from Intramuros to Quiapo. Since then, millions have joined the annual procession, often braving exhaustion, injury, and danger to touch or pull the ropes of the andas. 

The devotion has been described as bordering on fanaticism, with devotees believing in miracles and blessings from even the briefest contact with the image.

For many, the Traslacion is more than ritual — it is a test of faith, endurance, and identity. But as crowds swell each year, how much risk are devotees really willing to take? And how should authorities balance devotion with public safety?

Typical crimes during the annual Traslacion include petty theft, pickpocketing, and physical altercations among devotees. Police records also note incidents of injuries from overcrowding, with some cases of minors suffering fractures in past processions. 

These recurring problems highlight the risks posed by the massive turnout of millions who join the event each year.

Fr. Robert Arellano, spokesperson for Nazareno 2026, reminded the faithful: “Ang pinakamahalaga pa rin dito, naisapuso at naisabuhay natin ‘yong mga aral na narinig natin … na nagkaroon ito ng mabuti at magandang epekto sa ating buhay, pamilya, komunidad, at lalong-lalo na sa ating bansa.” 

(What matters most is living out the lessons we have heard … bringing good to our lives, families, communities, and especially our nation.)

(Image: CBCPNews / Wikipedia)