The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Friday appealed to candidates to respect the solemnity” of the Black Nazarene procession, known as “Traslacion” on January 9, 2025, and not use it to campaign among its millions of devotees.
Held annually on January 9 in the Quiapo district of Manila, this festival honors the Black Nazarene. The event is known for its massive procession, where the statue is paraded through the streets, drawing devotees from across the country.
Poll chairman George Garcia said “Traslacion” is a major religious event that should not be used for political purposes.
“A sacred event like the Traslacion in Quiapo should not be politicized, even if it happens before the campaign period and some are already acting like candidates,” Garcia said in Tagalog.
“This is only a one-day event compared to the 90 days of campaign period,” he added.
The Comelec chief called on aspirants to leave alone the devotees, saying “there is a time for politics.“
The official campaign period for national candidates will start on Feb. 12, during which “all of the rules and restrictions will have to be respected,” Garcia said.
