Modified Nazarene carriage caused Traslacion delays

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January 13, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Structural changes to the andas or carriage carrying the Black Nazarene image and crowd congestion contributed to delays during the Jan. 9 Traslacion, the National Capital Region Police Office said yesterday.

NCRPO spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo said the andas became harder to maneuver after its structure was modified from three to four wheels.

“Imagine how much harder it is to maneuver a four-wheeled structure, especially when it is being pushed toward the center while people are crowding the sides and even the canal,” Asilo told reporters.

She said the carriage was also fitted with a steering wheel.

“There is already a steering wheel inside, although we do not know if it really helped those maneuvering it,” Asilo said. “This is something the Quiapo Church officials may want to review – whether the carriage is still effective or needs changes.”

Asilo said four deaths were recorded during the Traslacion.

“All in all, from the start of the Traslacion, there were four fatalities: one during the pahalik and three during the procession,” she said.

Asilo said there is no basis to file charges against the management of the Quiapo Church over the deaths and injuries during the Traslacion.

“The families were aware of the consequences and possible risks of participating in the procession,” Asilo said.

All three fatalities were brought to the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center.

Asilo also said police deployment proved to be insufficient amid the surge of devotees.

“We had about 700 police hijos, but that was still not enough because of the large number of devotees, including young people who overpowered our personnel,” Asilo said.

Authorities are considering increasing police presence in future Black Nazarene processions, according to Asilo.