‘Towed, confiscated’: Manila gov’t tightens measures for Traslacion 2020

MANILA, Philippines — The city government of Manila on Monday said several rules would be in place for the annual Traslacion of the Black Nazarene—including strict implementation of the “no obstruction rule.”

Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso said “no types of obstruction will be allowed” as a move to clear the route of the “andas” or the Black Nazarene’s carriage.

“It has to be cleared of everything including motorcycles. All those vehicles found in the area will be considered donations to the City of Manila,” Moreno said in a press briefing in Quiapo, Manila three days before the religious event.

Moreno also warned vendors that their goods will be confiscated. The city government had previously announced that no vendors would be allowed to sell in key areas, including the Traslacion route on January 9.

“Walang magtitinda ng barbecue, banana cue. Wag nyo sabayan yung ruta sayang naman yung puhunan… Kukunin namin ‘yan kasi it will be considered obstruction,” Moreno said.

(No barbecue, banana cue vendors. Do not sell during the procession, your capital will only go to waste. We will take your goods because it will be considered obstruction.)

“Let’s make this solemn… Time ng pagmumuni-muni,” the mayor added.

(Let’s make this solemn… This is the time to reflect.)

Further, Moreno also advised politicians to avoid being “epal” by putting up greeting banners in line with the celebration.

These banners, the city mayor said, would be torn down.

Likewise, Moreno also reminded that drinking alcohol is not allowed outside personal households.

Traslacion or the procession of the life-size image of the Black Nazarene from the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park to the Quiapo Church is an annual religious event in the country attended by millions of Filipinos.