Palace hopes for safe, orderly Feast of the Black Nazarene

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang is hoping for a solemn and orderly celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene as millions of devotees gather for the annual procession on Thursday.

In a statement, Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said the annual Catholic tradition is a “strong and a constant reminder” of Filipinos’ “deep and lasting” relationship with God.

“It is a good opportunity to strengthen our Christian ties with each other and move us to a spiritual awakening and rebirth that will contribute enormously to having a peaceful Philippines,” Panelo said.

“As millions flock the Quiapo Church and surrounding areas as part of the time-honored tradition, the Palace is one in wishing for the safety of everyone and the orderly conduct of this solemn event,” he added.

Over 13,000 cops have been deployed to ensure the safety of devotees of the annual procession or Traslacion of the Black Nazarene in the streets of Manila.

Work and classes in the capital city on Thursday have been suspended to pave way for the religious event.

The procession, which starts from Quirino Grandstand and ends at Quiapo Church, usually takes 18 to 22 hours with authorities expecting at least six million participants.