Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) – Security remained tight for the Black Nazarene procession on Saturday (January 9), as the crowd continuously grows for the annual Traslacion.
Despite the procession being expected to draw up to 13 million devotees, authorities said there is no cause for alarm. Authorities added they compare their preparations to the papal visit last year.
Coast Guard boats are on patrol today to monitor the Pasig River in case pilgrims fall off the Jones Bridge.
At around 11 a.m., a 15-year-old male was rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) after falling off the bridge.
PCG spokesman Commander Armando Balilo said authorities have yet to know if the boy jumped off the bridge or was pushed off, but what is important is the boy was saved.
The PCG deployed 15 rescue assets for Traslacion, while other personnel and K9 units are on standby.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) also deployed about 4,000 policemen for the procession.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) assigned 1,700 personnel to man traffic and clear road obstructions, while the Manila City government deployed 2,700 volunteers.
Authorities keep telling devotees to hold on to their belongings as pickpockets and snatchers often take advantage of the event.
CNN Philipines’ David Santos and Isabella Montano contributed to this report.
