Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) – Although not prohibited, bringing selfie sticks to the Black Nazarene procession on Saturday (January 9) is strongly discouraged.
Manila City officials asked devotees on Friday (January 8) to avoid bringing and using selfie sticks, camera stands, or other gadget extension devices which could cause inconvenience and even danger during the occasion.
Johnny Yu, officer-in-charge of the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), said although he does not recall any incident in the past where selfie sticks and similar devices caused danger, it is better to exercise caution.
“Kung meron mang magdadala niyan ay wag dun sa mismong prusisyon at mga crowd ng tao dahil baka may matapilok o matamaan, iyon po ang delikado,” Yu said.
[Translation: “If someone will bring those (gadget extensions) we hope they won’t bring those to the procession itself or amid the large crowd because it may cause someone to trip over or be hit, that is the danger.”]
Yu added those who’ll take selfies or ‘groupfies’ (group selfies) can do so away from the procession.
Officials said some areas that draw large crowds abroad have already banned the use of gadget extensions for the danger they pose.
The Traslacion is expected to draw up to 15 million participants.
“Kailangan po sanang makipagtulungan ang bawat isa para matiyak natin ang kaligtasan, kaayusan at kalinisan ng lahat ng mga aktibidad ng Pista,” Manila City Mayor Joseph Estrada said.
[Translation: “We need the cooperation of everyone to ensure the safety, order and cleanliness during all activities of the feast.”]
Yu also reminded devotees to observe the guidelines set by authorities that prohibit the bringing of backpacks, baseball caps, weapons, and alcoholic drinks, among others.
