TRASLACION, the annual procession of the revered 400-year-old image of the Black Nazarene in Manila.
Thousands of devotees gathered early this morning to join or witness this deeply spiritual event, which began at Quirino Grandstand and will culminate at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, also known as Quiapo Church.
Here’s a detailed timeline of the procession, as monitored by Quiapo Church, the Manila Police District and other sources.
4:41 a.m.: The procession officially began as the andas, or the carriage bearing the image of the Black Nazarene, left Quirino Grandstand.
5:36 a.m.: The andas crossed Roxas Boulevard and reached Katigbak Drive, moving steadily as more devotees joined the procession.
6:17 a.m.: The procession reached Padre Burgos Street, passing by the National Parks Development Committee area.
6:39 a.m.: Movement slowed along Padre Burgos Street as devotees climbed the andas, causing it to tilt slightly.
7:10 a.m.: The andas crossed Maria Orosa Street, heading deeper into the city.
8:06 a.m.: The procession reached Taft Avenue.
8:14 a.m.: The image of the Nazarene crossed Ayala Bridge, marking a key moment in its journey.
9:38 a.m.: The tail end of the procession approached Ayala Boulevard, while the andas advanced to Natividad Lopez Street by 9:45 a.m.
10:06 a.m.: The image crossed Ayala Bridge again, as thousands of devotees remained tightly packed around the procession.
11:05 a.m.: The andas moved onto Quezon Boulevard. By 12:00 noon, it had reached Arlegui Street, with the procession slowing significantly due to the dense crowd.
12:15 p.m.: Movement temporarily stopped as the andas was shaken along Quezon Boulevard. Despite the volume of devotees, the procession pressed forward.
1:50 p.m.: The andas reached Vergara Street corner Fraternal Street. By 2:00 p.m., it was moving along Castillejos Street in Quiapo, with the front part of the procession nearing Arlegui Street.
2:55 p.m.: The andas arrived at Farnecio Street in Quiapo, signaling its final approach to Quiapo Church.
The Traslacion is more than just a religious event; it is a profound display of faith and devotion by the Filipino people. As the procession continues, authorities remind devotees to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. We will bring you further updates as the event unfolds.