Devotees queue for the traditional 'Pahalik' at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on January 7, 2024. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA — The church and law enforcement agencies are all set and prepared for the upcoming "Pahalik" at the Quirino Grandstand, a traditional ceremony held before the Feast of Jesus Nazareno on January 9.

As early as 2 p.m. on Monday, Elinor Ruallo from Las Piñas was already patiently waiting in line at the Quirino Grandstand to personally kiss the image of Christ and offer prayers.

Though the ceremony officially begins the next day, Elinor chose to be early to secure her spot in the line, as part of her yearly devotion. 

“Masaya naman para maagang makauwi. Kasi dati umuuwi ako alas-10:30 o 11. No’ng nakaraang taon, minsan madaling araw na ako nakauwi,” Elinor said.

Prepared with her own chair, a change of clothes, an umbrella, food, and drinks, Elinor views this as small sacrifice compared to the challenges she has overcome due to her devotion to Jesus Nazareno. 

“Hindi mo alam kung anong taon ‘yon na down na down talaga ako. Hiwa-hiwalay kaming mag-iina, wala ‘yong mga kapatid ko, ako lang talaga. Dati sa General Trias pa ako nakatira. Magmomotor lang ako pa-Quiapo, magsisimba ng madaling araw,” she said.

While in line, Elinor had the opportunity to connect with fellow devotees like Narjeta Suar.

“Sana po walang mangyari sa amin ng pamilya ko. Sana gumaling ang mga maysakit. Masarap ang pakiramdam kapag nakahalik sa Nazareno,” Narjeta said.

Authorities and church officials have made thorough preparations for the anticipated influx of devotees. 

Barriers were set up along Kalaw Street, which would serve as the entry point to the Quirino Grandstand. 

Two lines were designated: one for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and children, and another for regular devotees. 

Personnel from the church, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and police will assist in maintaining order in the queues.

After kissing the image of the Jesus Nazareno at the grandstand, devotees will exit through Katigbak Street.

“Pinapairal pa rin natin ang ating health protocol. Sana ho ay may dala tayong pang-sanitize para kung meron tayong dalang bacteria o mikrobyo sa katawan, hindi natin maipasa sa iba nating kapatidsaid Alex Irasga, Technical Advisor at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of the Black Nazarene.

"Kung tayo ay hahawak, sana ho may panyo tayong naipahid o tuwalya at ‘yon na lamang po ang halikan natin sa halip na halikan pa natin ang mismong krus o paa ng ating Nazareno,” he added. 

Deputy Area Command Jhune Tolentino reminded devotees to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions, especially for those with medical conditions.

“They have to hydrate themselves kasi napakiinit po ngayon at saka doon sa mga may taong karamdaman o medical conditions, dapat wag po nilang kakalimutan ang kanilang maintenance,” Tolentino said.

In preparation for the Traslacion on January 9, over 12,000 police officers will be deployed to ensure safety and order. 

Additional support will come from more than 2,000 personnel from the military, coast guard, fire bureau, and medical teams.