WITH only a few days to the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the Philippine National Police (PNP) declared plans to deploy over 13,000 personnel and officers for Traslacion 2024.

Photo Courtesy: Ryan Baldemor

On Tuesday, January 2, 2024, PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said the PNP was working with the Manila Police District in anticipation of an estimated 2.5 million devotees attending the feast.

“As of now, for our planning, we intend to deploy 13,691 police officers,” said Acorda in an interview with Radyo Pilipinas, as they discussed their strategies in ensuring the participants’ safety.

“Based on our estimated population, the number of attendees will reach 2.5 [million], but this number may change. We will also deploy our K-9 units,” he added.

Photo Courtesy: Ryan Baldemor

Previously, the PNP announced that they intended to deploy 5,602 police personnel for the walk of faith or the march from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church.

The PNP said it has not received any real and severe threat against the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, which will take place later this week.

“Sa ngayon, wala pa tayong nare-receive na any credible, serious threat pagdating po sa Traslacion 2024,” said PNP spokesperson PCol. Jean Fajardo in a press conference.

“Pero kagaya ng sinasabing ating Chief PNP, we are hoping for the best but we are preparing for the worst scenario if ever po,” she added.

The PNP said cell phone signal jammers may be used as a security measure to protect the millions of devotees during the procession.

Acorda also warned the public about bringing forbidden objects to the yearly march. Among the items banned during the march are backpacks, umbrellas and water bottles.

For everyone’s safety, the PNP chief asked the public to obey the security rules enforced by the Feast of the Black Nazarene organizers and government officials. #RepublicAsiaTraslacion2024