(Photo courtesy : James Bulan/ManilaPIO)
During the January 5 live broadcast of Talk To The People, Manila Mayor Francisco Isko Moreno Domagoso detailed the extensive preparations being undertaken by the city government to ensure public safety, order, and the solemnity of the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9.
Under Executive Order No. 1, Series of 2026, work in all Manila City Government offices and classes at all levels—both public and private—will be suspended on January 9 to allow the faithful to safely participate in the annual religious event. Despite the suspension, essential frontline services will remain fully operational. These include peace and order units, social services, traffic enforcement teams, disaster risk reduction and management personnel, and health services to ensure uninterrupted public assistance throughout the celebration. Decisions on work suspension for national government offices and private companies within Manila are left to the discretion of their respective management.
To further maintain order and preserve the sanctity of the occasion, the city has also issued Executive Order No. 2, Series of 2026, imposing a liquor ban on January 9. The ban covers a 500-meter radius around Quiapo Church as well as all routes of the Traslacion. The sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages within these areas will be strictly prohibited to help prevent disturbances during the procession.
In addition, Executive Order No. 3, Series of 2026 declares a total ban on the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices across the entire City of Manila from January 8 to 9. The measure aims to reduce the risk of injuries, fires, and other hazards amid the massive turnout of devotees expected for one of the country’s largest religious gatherings.
City officials emphasized that these coordinated measures reflect Manila’s commitment to safeguarding both public welfare and the deeply rooted spiritual significance of the Black Nazarene celebration.