The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday warned devotees who will be participating in the Traslacion, or Feast of the Black Nazarene, on Friday, 9 January, about the dangers of stampedes amid massive crowds.

In an advisory, the DOH said the risk of stampede is high in narrow and densely packed areas, especially during peak portions of the procession.

"When attending the Traslacion, learn the signs of a stampede and what to do if one occurs to ensure a safe commemoration and celebration," the agency said.

Among the common signs of an impending stampede, according to the DOH, are strong pushing from the crowd, sudden and simultaneous movement of people, difficulty lifting one's feet, and trouble breathing.

"If you notice any of these signs, immediately move away if possible and head to a more open area," it added.

Traslacion is one of the major activities of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, marking the procession of the image of Jesus Christ from the Quirino Grandstand back to Quiapo Church.

The event commemorates the arrival of the image of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno (Our Lord Jesus the Nazarene) from Acapulco, Mexico, to the Philippines in the 1600s, as well as its transfer from Bagumbayan, formerly part of Intramuros, to Quiapo Church–St. John the Baptist Parish in 1767.

Last year’s procession lasted 20 hours and 45 minutes and drew an estimated 8.1 million devotees.