MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said on Thursday that the country saw the work of the hands of God and the strong faith of Filipinos in the Traslacion, or the procession of the Black Nazarene last January 9.
According to DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr., the event was also made possible by bayanihan, or Filipino camaraderie between agencies and other stakeholders.
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“We did not only see the hands of God and the faith of Filipinos in this religious exercise. We also saw bayanihan at work between the national and local governments and other stakeholders,” Abalos said in a statement.
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The DILG chief also commended the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Metro Manila Development Authority, and the local government of Manila for their efforts during the event.
Abalos likewise reported that there were no major untoward incidents recorded during the course of the procession, albeit for a few injuries suffered by some devotees.
“We also thank the millions of devotees who heeded the guidance and reminders of the authorities while expressing their faith in the Black Nazarene,” Abalos said.
According to a report from the Quiapo Church, an estimated 6.5 million devotees attended the 2024 Traslacion, which resumed after a three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
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