CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan de Oro City – January 9, 2025
The Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10) is ramping up its security preparations for the highly anticipated Feast of the Black Nazarene in Cagayan de Oro City, an event expected to draw thousands of devotees to churches and the Grand Procession.
This annual celebration, deeply rooted in Filipino faith, revolves around the Black Nazarene, a sacred image believed to possess miraculous powers. Devotees flock to touch the image or its ropes, seeking miracles and healing. The devotion’s popularity has led to large gatherings, necessitating comprehensive measures to ensure public safety.
The centerpiece of the event is the Grand Procession, starting at 6:00 AM at the San Agustin Cathedral Church. The procession will traverse Dolores Street, Velez Street, and CM Recto Avenue before culminating at the Nazareno Parish.
To maintain order and security, PRO10 will deploy approximately 700 personnel, augmented by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (Task Force Diamond), Philippine Coast Guard, and Bureau of Fire Protection. This robust force will include Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) teams, Quick Reaction Teams (QRT), and covert personnel strategically positioned along the procession route.
PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, Regional Director of PRO10, highlighted the critical importance of public safety for the event.
“As this sacred occasion draws near, we are committed to maintaining peace and order while ensuring the safety of all devotees. We are proactively implementing measures to address any security concerns, including enhancing traffic management and deploying personnel to deter any unlawful activities,” he stated.
To further fortify their readiness, PRO10 will activate its Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) for immediate deployment. The police are also maximizing collaboration with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), local government units, and religious sectors to execute a comprehensive security plan.
“Our police force is prepared to respond swiftly to any threats. We urge everyone to cooperate with authorities to make this event safe and successful,” PBGEN De Guzman added.
Devotees are encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to nearby police stations. With a strong focus on safety and collaboration, PRO10 aims to uphold the sanctity and success of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, ensuring a meaningful experience for all participants.