MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police under the leadership of Acting Chief PNP, PLt.Gen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., reports that Traslación 2026 and the Feast of the Black Nazarene were carried out safely and in an atmosphere of deep faith, despite the procession’s extended hours, highlighting the endurance, unity, and resilience of the Filipino people.
“This year’s Traslación once again showed the depth of our people’s devotion,” Nartatez said. “Sa kabila ng haba at lawak ng prusisyon, nakita natin ang pagtutulungan ng lahat. This proves that faith and public safety can move forward together.”
An estimated 2.8 million devotees participated in the celebration, traversing key streets from the Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church.
Lasting approximately 30 hours and 50 minutes—one of the longest Traslación processions in recent years—the event required sustained vigilance and coordination among security, medical, and crowd management teams to ensure the safe and orderly movement of the faithful.
Throughout the procession, authorities monitored more than 1,000 medical-related incidents, the vast majority of which were minor and manageable, such as fatigue, dizziness, and superficial injuries commonly associated with large-scale religious gatherings.
All concerns were promptly addressed by on-site medical teams and first responders.
Two fatalities were recorded, and the PNP is coordinating closely with medical authorities and the families concerned.
“We prepared for every possible scenario,” Nartatez added. “Dahil sa dedikasyon ng ating mga pulis, augmentation units, at partner organizations, narespondehan agad ang lahat ng pangyayari. The safety and well-being of every devotee remained our top priority from start to finish.”
The PNP commends the dedication, professionalism, and endurance of its personnel, who worked continuously for nearly a full day to manage crowds, secure routes, and assist the public.
“Ipinakita ng ating mga pulis ang malasakit at propesyonalismo, kahit sa mahabang oras ng pagbabantay. This operation was truly a team effort,” Nartatez said.
The cooperation of the devotees also played a crucial role in the success of the event. “Malaking pasasalamat namin sa mga deboto na sumunod sa mga panuntunan at gumalang sa mga paalala ng ating kapulisan. Their cooperation helped maintain order and ensured a safer celebration for everyone,” he noted.
Traslación 2026 stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the Filipino people, the strength of community cooperation, and the effectiveness of coordinated public safety efforts.
It also reflects the continuing commitment of the Philippine National Police to serve with integrity, responsiveness, and compassion—living the mantra, Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.
As the celebration concludes, the PNP reminds all devotees and the general public to remain vigilant while traveling home. Observe traffic rules, watch out for personal belongings, and follow the guidance of traffic enforcers and safety personnel to ensure a safe journey.
