SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go, a known health reforms crusader, called on devotees of the Black Nazarene to prioritize their safety and health while participating in the upcoming Traslacion on January 9. This year’s event, expected to draw around six million people according to the Philippine National Police (PNP), will feature the traditional procession of the revered icon through Manila’s streets, culminating at the Quiapo Church.
“Mahalaga ang pananampalataya, pero ‘wag natin kalimutan ang kaligtasan at kalusugan ng bawat isa,” Senator Go emphasized during a recent interview. “Kung sasama kayo sa Traslacion, siguraduhin n’yo na maayos ang inyong kalagayan, at sundin ang mga patakaran para manatiling ligtas ang lahat.”
The Traslacion, a centuries-old religious tradition, commemorates the transfer of the image of the Black Nazarene from Intramuros to Quiapo Church in 1787. The event’s hallmark is the grand procession, during which devotees pull ropes attached to the andas (carriage) of the Black Nazarene, often enduring physical challenges as an expression of faith and penance.
The Manila Public Information Office has announced the detailed route for the procession, starting from the Quirino Grandstand and passing through several major streets before reaching Quiapo Church. Security measures are being heightened, with the PNP deploying 12,000 personnel supported by 2,500 additional forces from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
“Napakahalaga na may disiplina tayo sa ganitong kalaking pagtitipon. Sundan natin ang mga patakaran ng lokal na pamahalaan at mga awtoridad upang maiwasan ang mga hindi kanais-nais na insidente,” Senator Go added.
In addition to security concerns, health remains a top priority for Senator Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography. He urged attendees to wear masks, especially in crowded areas, and to bring their own water and essentials to avoid dehydration or exhaustion.
“Lagi kong paalala, magdala ng tubig at magpahinga kung kinakailangan. Kung may nararamdaman na hindi maganda sa katawan, mas mabuting umiwas muna sa siksikan,” he said.
Medical stations and emergency response teams will be strategically located along the procession’s route to provide immediate assistance. Senator Go also encouraged devotees to avail themselves of these services if needed, underscoring the importance of preparedness in ensuring everyone’s welfare.
While urging caution, Senator Go acknowledged the deep spiritual significance of the Traslacion for millions of Filipinos. He expressed admiration for the unwavering devotion of the participants, who continue to uphold the tradition despite the physical and logistical challenges involved.
“Ang Traslacion ay patunay ng matibay na pananampalataya ng ating mga kababayan. Ngunit lagi kong sinasabi, hindi masusukat ang lalim ng ating pananampalataya sa hirap ng ating sakripisyo. Sa halip, mas mahalaga ang ating malasakit sa kapwa at sarili,” Senator Go remarked.
“Ako ang inyong Senator Kuya Bong Go, patuloy na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat dahil bisyo ko na ang magserbisyo at ako po ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo po yan sa Diyos,” he concluded.
