The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) have assured the public of heightened security and extensive preparations for the Feast of the Black Nazarene in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure a peaceful, safe, and meaningful Traslacion for millions of devotees.

In a Palace press briefing on Wednesday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said security preparations are in full swing for the upcoming Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9.

“Alinsunod sa direktiba ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na panatilihing payapa at makabuluhan ang idaraos na Traslacion, nakaalerto ang pwersa ng PNP, DILG at ibang ahensya ng gobyerno upang siguruhin ang kaligtasan ng mga dadalo sa nasabing kaganapan,” said Castro.

The Palace Press Officer said around 18,200 uniformed personnel will be deployed to secure key areas in Manila during the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

“Makakaasa sa increased police presence and visibility ang mga debotong lalahok sa Traslacion lalo na sa tatlong major areas: sa Quirino Grandstand, sa buong ruta na daraanan na prusisyon, at sa Quiapo Church na huling destinasyon ng imahe ng Poong Nazareno,” Castro said.

For added security, the PNP will implement no-fly zones and set up cell phone signal jammers near the Traslacion areas, according to Castro.

“Nagpaalala naman ang DILG sa mga lalahok na maging alerto at iwasang magdala ng mga matatalim at nakakasugat na bagay, mga paputok at pyrotechnic devices, mga lalagyang babasagin at iba pang ipinagbabawal na kagamitan,” she added.

Castro said authorities also reminded the public that carrying firearms and other weapons is strictly prohibited under the gun ban currently in effect in Manila.

The Palace Press Officer also noted that PNP Chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartates Jr. has directed police personnel to remain alert, calm, and humane while carrying out their duties during the celebration.

“Nawa’y maging matiwasay, ligtas at makabuluhan ang selebrasyon ng Pista ng Poong Nazareno para sa lahat ng deboto,” said Castro.

Malacañang has declared January 9, 2026, a special non-working day in Manila City to ensure the orderly observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

The Manila city government has also suspended classes in all levels and work in local government offices on that day in observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene. | PND