"The number of injured persons during the procession dropped to only 384, way below the almost 1,000 recorded last year. I salute the efficient performance of the Manila policemen and the organizers for maintaining an orderly and peaceful celebration," Abarzosa said.
Most of the casualties in the procession, which was attended by over 100,000 devotees, suffered only minor injuries and fainting spells. There were no deaths this time. Last year, two were killed in a stampede when the Black Nazarene statue was brought out of the Quiapo Church at the start of the procession.
Manila policemen made security preparations for the procession as early as last Sunday, anticipating the thousands of devotees attending the procession.
Some 500 cops were deployed by Abarzosa at the Quirino Grandstand where the image of the Black Nazarene was brought for an overnight vigil. Police dogs were also deployed to sniff for bombs.
Traffic was also well-coordinated and maintained after Senior Superintendent Elmer Jamias, chief of the Western District Traffic Enforcement Office, released an early traffic rerouting announcement.
Last Tuesday’s procession was also escorted by motorcyle policemen and officers were all around the procession route to maintain order. — Nestor Etolle