Thousands flock to the Quirino Grandstand before Traslacion

The crowd gathered at the Quirino Grandstand early Tuesday morning has reached about 365,000 according to the Manila Police Department (MPD), James Agustin reported for Super Radyo's dzBB.

The devotees of the Black Nazarene continued to line up for the "Pahalik", hours before the Traslacion or the transfer of the miraculous image from the grandstand to Quiapo church takes place.

Tuloy tuloy ang pahalik sa imahen ng Itim na Nazareno sa Quirino Grandstand. Ilang oras na lang ang hinihinatay para sa pagsisimula ng #Traslacion2018 @dzbb pic.twitter.com/35FRerwKzv

— James Agustin (@_jamesJA) January 8, 2018

At the Quiapo Church or the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, devotees gathered to hear the 3 a.m. Mass that was presided by Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo.

Thousands attend the 3am mass at Quiapo Church led by Bishop Broderick Pabillo. #Nazareno2018 @gmanews pic.twitter.com/quUWOT71mp

— Victoria Tulad (@victoriatulad) January 8, 2018

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police Chief Ronald dela Rosa said the agency is ready to implement security measures for the Traslacion procession.

PNP chief Director General Bato Dela Rosa: Handang handa na tayo sa #Traslacion2018 lalo na sa latag ng seguridad. @dzbb pic.twitter.com/H2kAzlYNNw

— James Agustin (@_jamesJA) January 8, 2018

 — BAP/KG, GMA News