VIVA JESUS NAZARENO

Manila braces for massive Traslacion crowd. DOH: Watch out for signs of a stampede. PNP: Security measures now in place in Manila

- DIANN CALUCIN, PATRICK ELY GARCIA, and AARON RECUENCO

Anticipating the usual massive crowd in today's Traslacion of Jesus Nazarene, the city of Manila, together with national agencies, has intensified preparations for one of the country's largest religious gatherings.

On the other hand, the Department of Health (DOH) reminded devotees of the Jesus Nazareno to prioritize their safety, urging the faithful to keep watch of signs of a stampede which it issued.

The Philippine National Police (PNP), meanwhile, deployed more than 18,000 policemen to secure the Traslacion.

Manila City Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso had earlier signed three Executive Orders as part of the city government's preparations.

These include the suspension of work in all Manila City government offices and classes at all levels in both public and private schools on Jan. 9, the imposition of a liquor ban within a 500-meter radius of Quiapo Church and along Traslacion routes, and a total ban on the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices from Jan. 8 to 9 across the city.

Jan. 9 was also declared by President Marcos as a special non-working holiday to celebrate the event.

City authorities warned that fines and other penalties await violators, with police and local enforcers authorized to issue citations and make apprehensions on the spot.

The measures are aimed at ensuring public safety, order, and solemnity during the annual religious event.

Domagoso also led the send-off ceremony of security and safety forces at Quirino Grandstand, assuring the public that personnel from various agencies are fully prepared to secure the Traslacion and respond to emergencies.