Coast Guard, PNP deployed to secure Traslacion 2019

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine National Police are among the several agencies deployed to secure this year’s Traslacion. 

“The 27,000-strong NCRPO is on Full Alert and will be fielding a sizable contingent of 7,200 personnel for public safety and law enforcement duties in the Traslacion activities,” the Philippine National Police said in a statement. “This will be augmented by troops from the Joint Task Force NCR of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.”

Other agencies that will secure the Traslacion, according to the PNP, include the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Department of, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Metro Manila Development Authority, the Philippine Red Cross, the National Telecommunications Commission, among others.

“To achieve this goal of zero casualty, we need the utmost cooperation of everyone particularly the devotees who will participate in the activities,” the PNP said. 

Although no one was killed in last year’s Traslacion, hundreds were injured due to attendees attempting to kiss the image of the Black Nazarene. 

CONTEXT: NCRPO: No serious incidents recorded in Traslacion 2018

A liquor ban had been in place since Monday, according to the PNP until after the procession is over.

“Unruly persons and those under the influence of drugs and alcohol will be immediately evicted from the activity,” the PNP said. 

Authorities said they have not monitored any significant security threats to the Traslacion or any other major upcoming religious events in the country.

National Capital Region Police Office Chief Guillermo Eleazar is expected to provide a more detailed security plan on Tuesday.

State weather-bureau PAGASA said that light rains are expected during the procession.

The MMDA also announced several road closures to accomodate the annual procession from January 7 to 9.  — Ryan Macasero