Devotees reminded of security measures for Nazareno 2025

Authorities have issued reminders to the public regarding strict security protocols for the Feast of Jesus Nazareno 2025, focusing on the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, as well as the procession route.

In a report by Katrina Son on 24 Oras Weekend on Saturday, Nazareno 2025 spokesperson Fr. Robert Arellano emphasized the importance of minimizing items brought to the event, particularly bags, to ensure faster entry and safer participation.

“Pinapaalala po natin na magkakaroon tayo ng mahigpit na pagpapatupad sa pag-scan ng kanilang mga gamit," said Nazareno 2025 Spokesperson Fr. Robert Arellano.

"Kaya ang aming laging paalala: kung gusto nating makapasok sa simbahan ng mas mabilis, kung di naman kailangan magdala ng mga bag, wag na po magdala. Kasi pag tayo ay may bag tayo ay magu-undergo sa scanning process pa.”

(We remind everyone that we will strictly enforce item scanning. If you don’t need to bring a bag, avoid doing so. It will allow you to enter the church more quickly and avoid delays caused by scanning processes.)

Devotees were also reminded not to block procession routes, refrain from bringing large replicas of Jesus Nazareno, and avoid climbing the Jesus Nazareno pedestal.

“Sa taong ito, ipinagbabawal pa rin ang pagsampa sa andas dahil nga ang nais natin ay makita ang mahal ng Poong Hesus Nazareno ng lahat ng tao,” said Arellano.

(This year, climbing the pedestal is strictly prohibited. We want everyone to have a chance to see the sacred image of Jesus Nazareno.)

Authorities urged attendees to prepare for inclement weather by bringing light raincoats.

Meanwhile, vendors were instructed to set up in designated areas and not along the procession route to prevent accidents.

Manila Police District Director Police Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay also highlighted safety concerns, prohibiting the sale of items like skewered street food and glass bottles.

“Itong mga vendor natin na nagtitinda ng fishball [ay hindi pwede], kasi naka-stick po ito," said Manila Police District Director Police Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay.

"Kadalasan po, nakakasugat po ito sa kanilang mga paa. Pangalawa, mahigpit nating ipinagbabawal ‘yung pagtitinda ng mga babasaging bote kasi ‘pag nalaglag ito, masugatan ‘yung mga nakayapak na deboto.”

(Skewers can cause injuries, especially to barefoot devotees. Glass bottles, if broken, can also pose risks.)

Vendors acknowledged the regulations, stating their willingness to comply with designated selling areas.

Event Preparations

With over six million devotees expected to join the event, preparations are in full swing.

The Philippine Red Cross has installed 17 first-aid stations along the procession route.

The Department of Public Works and Highways, for its part, was inspecting manholes to ensure safety.

The Philippine National Police is conducting area inspections ahead of the event.

The Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno administration encouraged attendees to arrive well-prepared, urging them to eat beforehand and come with a prayerful disposition.

The Feast of Jesus Nazareno will take place on January 9, with activities set to commence at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno.

In 2024, more than 6.5 million devotees participated in the first Traslacion parade after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. — Jiselle Anne Casucian/DVM, GMA Integrated News