Traslacion 2024: PNP to deploy over 13,000 cops

Nazareno 2024: Live Updates for The Feast of Black Nazarene

WHO LET THE DOGS OUT? Policemen keep a tight watch on the Quiapo church ahead of “Traslacion” in this file photo taken in January 2020. – INQUIRER file photo / MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Tuesday that it is planning to dispatch more than 13,000 personnel and officers for the Traslacion or the Feast of the Black Nazarene this month, which will be held in Manila.

PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said they are already coordinating with Manila Police District director Col. Arnold Thomas Ibay and anticipating an estimated 2.5 million locals and devotees who will attend the event.

“As of now, for our planning, we intend to deploy 13,691 police officers because, based on our estimated population, the number of attendees will reach 2.5 [million], but this number may change. We will also deploy our K9 units,” Acorda said in an interview over Radyo Pilipinas.

READ: Over 5,000 cops will be deployed for Nazarene procession – PNP

Earlier, PNP said they plan to disburse 5,602 police officers for the walk of faith alone or the procession from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church.

Aside from deployment, the PNP top official also reminded the public of the list of prohibited items to bring during the annual procession.

READ: No mammoth crowds, but devotees show up to honor Black Nazarene

“I would like to take this opportunity for the safety of our participants, [to remind them that] there are prohibitions. Like what we’ve discussed with the Quiapo church, attendees will be barred from bringing backpacks in controlled areas, and only transparent bags are encouraged. Bullcaps and umbrellas will also be prohibited, as well as liquid bottles and canisters – they should be transparent,” Acorda said in a mix of Filipino and English.

“We are telling this to the public so they will not be reprimanded,” he added.