PNP to enforce tight security for traslacion

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police will implement heightened security during the traslacion for the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila on Jan. 9, 2024.

The tight security will be enforced in the wake of the bombing at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City on Dec. 3, police said.

At a press briefing yesterday, PNP public information office chief Col. Jean Fajardo said security preparations for traslacion have commenced, with multi-agency representatives conducting walkthroughs in engagement areas. 

Fajardo underscored the importance of comprehensive threat assessment and risk factors identification to ensure the safety of Catholic devotees attending the religious activity.

Apart from simulation drills and walkthroughs, the PNP said communication exercises are being conducted in coordination with other law enforcement agencies and the management of the Quiapo Church.

Given the recent events, including the Marawi bombing, Fajardo acknowledged that security measures for the traslacion should be stricter. 

Fajardo said the deployment of signal jammers is being considered as part of security measures during the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

The National Capital Region is on full alert status for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.