Even though the traditional Traslacion 2021 – which is frequented by millions of devotees – is now suspended, it is expected that people will flock to Quiapo Church on Saturday, December 9, or the Feast of the Lord Nazarene.
But what exactly will be done in Traslacion 2021?
Authorities will implement health protocols, according to the Manila Police District.
According to MPD chief Leo Francisco, body temperature will be taken, and devotees should wear face shields and face masks.
The queue must also be followed. Only up to 400 will be allowed inside the church.
If carrying a bag, it is advisable to use a transparent bag so that it is not difficult to inspect. It is also good for them to bring a transparent container of drinking water.
Only those aged 18 and over can attend mass, in accordance with pandemic task force protocols.
The MPD also reminded that the city has a curfew so they are not allowed to spend the night around the church.
Francisco warns that those who violate protocols will be arrested.
“Kung hindi makaya ng maximum tolerance meron talagang ipatutupad na pag-aresto sa mga di susunod,” said Francisco.
Also read: Feast of Black Nazarene can be ‘superspreader’ of COVID-19 – HPAAC
COVID-19 protocols during Traslacion 2021
“Iba po ang sitwasyon ngayon, ang panganib ng COVID ay nandiyan pa. At kung gusto nating magkaroon ng marami pang Traslacion, tiyakin natin na ligtas tayo sa panahon na ito,” he added.
Crowds continue to gather for a mass at Quiapo Church on Friday.
The queue on Quezon Boulevard reached around Carlos Palanca Street, Villalobos, to Plaza Miranda on Friday morning.
The MPD has also removed vendors around the road, and even all parked vehicles – in preparation for road closures for the procession.
The MPD and the National Capital Region Police Office will deploy 6,000 policemen and more than 1,000 force multipliers.
Up to 29 control points were also laid out to control the crowd.
The MPD is also studying whether to cut the cellphone signal during Traslacion 2021 on Saturday.
Eugenio Jongco, president of Hijos de Nazareno Central, appealed to the devotees to obey the protocols laid down.