Expect heavy traffic near Quiapo Church starting Wednesday

Starting Wednesday, Jan. 7, motorists may have to expect heavy traffic around Quiapo Church as devotees start flocking there for the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

 

The church's administrators said devotees are to take part in the overnight vigil on Thursday and the Traslacion on Friday, radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported.

 

On Wednesday, a procession of all replicas of the Black Nazarene from various parts of the country will be held.

 

It is likely to draw a "considerable" crowd of devotees, the organizers said.

 

As of Tuesday morning, some replicas of the Black Nazarene had already arrived in Metro Manila.

A 10-feet tall statue of Black Nazarene arrives from Laguna | via @dannyboypata pic.twitter.com/P2v5ozAFiL

— GMA News (@gmanews) January 5, 2015

 

On the other hand, a report on GMA News TV's News TV Live on Tuesday said the area at the Quirino Grandstand where the vigil and Mass will be held has been cordoned off.

 

The area around Quiapo Church had been crowded this week, with vendors selling various items related to the festivities.

 

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada had suspended classes in the city on Friday in anticipation of those wanting to attend the activities.
 

Estrada also ordered a liquor ban on Friday, as well as on the five days of Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines. —Joel Locsin/KG, GMA News