A Testament of the Peacekeepers to Faith, Service, and Security
The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of its Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, led in the Send-Off Ceremony for Security and Safety Forces for the Nazareno 2025 on January 6 at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. Included were members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Joint Task Force (JTF), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), local government units (LGUs), religious organizations, and other key government agencies.
During the ceremony, General Marbil had highlighted the collective efforts needed to ensure the safety and security of millions of devotees expected to participate in the annual Black Nazarene procession, one of the largest religious gatherings in the Philippines. He emphasized the importance of service, professionalism, and respect in fulfilling their mission, which goes beyond mere security. He also underscored the need for strong coordination and collaboration among all involved parties to successfully manage the event, ensuring that devotees can freely express their faith without fear.
The Traslacion 2025 began at 4:41 a.m. on January 9, with thousands of Catholic devotees gathering at the Quirino Grandstand for the annual procession of the Jesus Nazareno image from Rizal Park to Quiapo Church. PNP Chief, General Marbil personally visited the site to oversee the extensive security measures in place, ensuring the public’s safety throughout the event. The procession had more than 70,000 devotees participating in the Misa Mayor prior to the start of the procession.
The PNP had ramped up its security efforts, deploying thousands of police officers along key areas: the procession route, high-density zones, and designated entry and exit points. Specialized units trained in crowd control had been stationed to maintain order, while the PNP Intelligence Group and Anti-Cybercrime Group had closely monitored potential physical and digital threats. Additional medical teams, quick-response units, and traffic management personnel had also been on hand to ensure the event ran smoothly with minimized disruptions, reaffirming the PNP’s commitment to upholding peace and safety during significant religious celebrations.
The Traslacion 2025, a profound expression of Filipinos’ faith and devotion, had concluded at 1:25 a.m. on January 10 at Quiapo Church without any major untoward incident, owing to the tireless efforts and sacrifices of the police force.
Police General Marbil lauded the peaceful and orderly conduct of this year’s Traslacion, the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene, which drew over 7.4 million devotees to Manila.
Police Brigadier General Anthony A. Aberin, the Acting Regional Director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) effective November 23, 2024, had closely supervised the event. Hitting the ground from inception to culmination, PBGen Aberin expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved. He highlighted the dedication, coordination, and capability of the men and women of NCRPO, assisted by the member of other government agencies, all guided by the objective of having a security force that could truly be seen, heard, and felt by the community.
PNP, in coordination with other uniformed services and local government units, had deployed 14,474 personnel to ensure the safety and security of the participants. The Philippine Red Cross had reported only 1,300 minor injuries, highlighting even the overall peaceful nature of the event.
“The successful and peaceful conduct of the Traslacion 2025 reflects the hard work and dedication of the men and women of PNP. They endured long hours and challenging conditions to protect the millions of devotees attending this sacred event,” said General Marbil. “Their service exemplifies their commitment to both God and country.”
While minor tensions arose early in the procession when some devotees had attempted to breach security barricades, PNP officers had acted swiftly and professionally to defuse the situation, ensuring the event proceeded smoothly.
PNP Chief, Police General Marbil had commended the exceptional coordination between police units, the Manila City Government, the Catholic Church, and volunteer organizations. “The seamless teamwork, strategic planning, and discipline displayed by our personnel were crucial to the success of this event,” he stated.
He also recognized the personal sacrifices made by officers, many of whom spent long hours away from their families and pushed through fatigue to ensure public safety.
“Our officers exemplify the true essence of public service. Their sacrifices ensure that millions of devotees can express their faith safely and peacefully. This level of commitment reflects the PNP’s dedication to serving and protecting the Filipino people,” he added.
He further called on the public to continue supporting the PNP’s peacekeeping efforts, particularly during large-scale events like the Traslacion.
“Let us honor the hard work and sacrifices of our policemen by fostering a culture of respect and cooperation. Together, we can continue building safer and more harmonious communities,” he said.
The PNP remains committed to its mission of ensuring the safety and security of every Filipino, whether during significant religious gatherings or in their daily lives. The peaceful Traslacion 2025 stands as a testament to the dedication and selfless service of the Philippine National Police.
The PNP remains committed to its mission of ensuring the safety and security of every Filipino, whether during significant religious gatherings or in their daily lives. The peaceful Traslacion 2025 stands as a testament to the dedication and selfless service of the Philippine National Police.
