The Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy around 15,000 police personnel to secure the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene on 9 January, one of the country’s largest annual religious gatherings.

In a radio interview, Manila Police District (MPD) spokesperson Police Major Philip Ines said the deployment aims to ensure public safety and maintain peace and order as millions of devotees are expected to converge in Manila for the Feast of the Jesus Nazarene in Quiapo.

The police contingent will be augmented by personnel from other government agencies to help manage crowds, traffic, and emergency response during the procession.

Ines said that several roads along the Traslacion route will be closed, and alternate routes will be opened to ease traffic and accommodate the movement of devotees.

He also noted that the PNP has already issued guidelines on prohibited items for those participating in the religious event to prevent security risks and ensure a safe environment.

According to the MPD spokesperson, authorities have not monitored any serious threats related to the upcoming Traslacion, but security forces remain on heightened alert as part of standard operating procedures.

The PNP urged the public to cooperate with authorities and follow safety guidelines to help ensure a peaceful and orderly Traslacion in 2026.