MANILA, Philippines — The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) announced on Thursday that over 14,000 police officers will be deployed to ensure the safety and security of the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila, on January 9.

NCRPO Acting Director Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin detailed the deployment plan, stating that 12,168 officers will be assigned to secure the event’s areas and routes, while an additional 2,306 personnel will bolster the force as reinforcements.

The Quiapo Church Command Post reported that 6,532,501 devotees joined the Nazareno procession in 2024, exceeding the Manila City government’s expected turnout by three times.

The procession, known as Traslacion, is a solemn transfer of the image of the Black Nazarene from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church that usually lasts for 14 to 18 hours on average.

In 2024, the procession lasted for over 14 hours and 59 minutes.

For this year, authorities have yet to release the crowd estimate but figures could be higher since no more restrictions are in place following the pandemic.

Aberin likewise noted that the deployment followed after authorities deployed 10,984 officers across the region from December 16, 2024, to January 1, 2025.

“Our intensified police visibility in key areas, the conduct of aggressive and relentless anti-crime operations, and the active participation of community members in the security coverage significantly removed the opportunity of lawless elements to commit their criminal acts,” Aberin said.

 “This strategy with minor modifications will be adopted as NCRPO will secure the Kapistahan ng Nazareno (Feast of the Black Nazarene) in a few days’ time,” he said.