MANILA, Philippines (First published Jan. 5) — Quiapo Church has released a comprehensive traffic advisory and safety guidelines ahead of the Traslacion 2026, warning motorists of widespread road closures and urging devotees to plan their routes early.
In an advisory issued Sunday, January 4, organizers said several major roads will be temporarily closed as the andas, or carriage, of the Black Nazarene passes through Manila.
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Church officials advised the public to avoid traveling to Quiapo starting 5 p.m. on January 8, particularly for southbound trips, as traffic restrictions take effect ahead of the procession.
Road closures will remain in place until the conclusion of the Traslacion, except in areas already cleared after the procession has passed.
Roads closed during the Traslacion
- The following roads are scheduled for temporary closure:
- Independence Road to Katigbak Drive
- Portions of Roxas Boulevard and Padre Burgos
- Ayala Bridge
- The stretch of Carlos Palanca Street to Globo de Oro
- Solano Street and Padilla Street
Quiapo Church authorities said P. Casal Street up to Mendiola and Legarda will remain closed to regular traffic to ensure access for emergency vehicles and rescue teams throughout the event.
Routes for devotees and motorists
For devotees heading to the Quirino Grandstand, organizers advised using the following routes:
- Taft Avenue
- Kalaw Avenue
- Roxas Boulevard
Devotees planning to follow the Traslacion procession were reminded not to meet or block the andas head-on. Instead, they were urged to join from behind and move with the flow of the procession to reduce congestion and safety risks.
Designated access routes were also identified for devotees coming from various areas:
- Those from western, northern, or España areas may pass through Quezon Bridge, MacArthur Bridge, or Jones Bridge toward Padre Burgos or Intramuros.
- Devotees from R-10, Tondo, and western areas may use M. Roxas Bridge or Delpan Bridge.
- Those coming from northern and eastern areas may take Nagtahan Bridge or Mabini Bridge toward Otis or U.N. Avenue.