ORGANIZERS of the annual Feast of Jesus Nazareno have introduced safety-focused modifications to the andas that will carry the image during the Jan. 9 Traslacion from Luneta to Quiapo Church.

Nazareno 2026 adviser Alex Irasga said the carriage now has additional wheels, an extra set of ropes, and a redesigned cross to limit opportunities for devotees to climb the andas. 

“We have shortened the cross so that there would be less opportunities to hang onto it. Our goal here is to protect our image,” he said.

Irasga described the upgraded andas as structurally sturdier and safer for the procession. 

“This is like an owner-type jeepney. It (andas) has an under chassis, it has brakes. The only thing that is missing from the vehicle is the engine.”

The glass enclosure housing the image will now have multiple holes to address moisture buildup. 

“For the simple reason that we want to solve the problem of moisture on the glass. The holes will help balance the temperature inside and outside,” he said.

Organizers also prepared an additional 30-meter rope to prevent disruptions caused by ropes being cut during the procession.

To ensure smoother movement, Katigbak Drive near the Manila Hotel and Padre Burgos Street will be closed to devotees as the andas departs from the Quirino Grandstand after the dawn prayer.

The Traslacion will follow its traditional route from the Quirino Grandstand through major streets and bridges before ending at Quiapo Church.

Quiapo Church Rector Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan urged devotees to prioritize attending Masses offered during the feast. 

“The Mass is the highest form of worship. Even if you join the procession for 24 hours and roll on the ground, it cannot equal one hour or even 45 minutes of Mass,” he said.

Balanga Bishop Rufino Sescon will preside over the Misa Mayor at midnight Friday at the Quirino Grandstand, followed by the continuation of the vigil ahead of the procession.