Traslacion organizers reiterated public appeals for an orderly observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene as it bared some innovations for the major religious event this Friday, January 9.
The statue of the Black Nazarene will continue to use its post-pandemic design, with the image kept inside its glass enclosures, albeit with some modifications.
In a press conference on Wednesday, technical adviser Alex Irasga revealed that the main Nazareno icon will carry a shorter cross to avoid devotees hanging on to the image.
The carriage bearing the image will be installed with four wheels instead of three, along with a perforated metal plate that would provide ventilation.
Two sets of ropes will also be installed, both measuring 30 meters in height, to help address measures that would break the cord throughout the procession.
The organizers have also mobilized “Hijos-Pulis,” or devotees who will help manage the crowds in keeping track with the Traslacion route.
“They are all devotees, they are all hijos (sons). They have been with us in spreading the faith for a very long time,” Irasga said, emphasizing that they will act accordingly and without harm.
Quiapo Church Rector Fr. Ramon Licuanan added that the parish continues to organize formation programs to help catechize Nazareno devotees.
“We are being patient. Although, on our end, we do our effort on teaching the most essential—the sacraments,” Licuanan said.
Irasga reminded parents and relatives of young devotees to refrain from joining the procession as other ways can be done to observe the celebration.
“Let us encourage them to attend masses. They are not aware of the physical pain should they force themselves to wade into the crowd and climb onto the carriage,” he said.
Irasga also made his plea to devotees to follow the announcements made by the organizers and proper authorities.
“The policemen are not our enemies. They are one in the faith to help keep the situation under control,” he later added.
He also warned that individuals who will cause disorder during the Traslacion will not be recognized as devotees.
“True devotees go to church and follow orders in order to maintain the solemnity and peace throughout the procession,” he explained.
