PRC: 6,476 Nazareno devotees assisted during Traslacion 2026

More than 6,400 devotees received medical assistance from the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) during what the organization described as the “most difficult” observance of the Feast of Jesus Nazareno.

Volunteers and personnel of the PRC assisted a total of 6,476 attendees during the nearly 31-hour grand procession of the image of the Jesus Nazareno, the longest observance of Traslacion in history.

This year’s Traslacion started at the Quirino Grandstand at 4 a.m. on January 9, Friday and lasted for 30 hours, 50 minutes, and 1 second.

It entered the gate of the Quiapo Church at 10:50 a.m. on January 10, Saturday, marking the end of the procession that drew at least 9,640,290 participants, according to official times and figures released by church officials.

“This has been the most difficult Traslacion in Philippine history. The procession lasted almost 31 hours and faced unexpected challenges. Yet, despite these obstacles, our team pressed on tirelessly, working over 48 hours on the ground to ensure the safety of the people,” said PRC Chairman and chief executive officer Richard Gordon.

“To all our volunteers and staff, I salute you. You make the impossible possible, and the Filipino people are fortunate to have your dedication in every mission you undertake,” he added.

Earlier, the PRC said it will deploy 1,261 personnel and volunteers for the annual Feast of Jesus Nazareno in Manila to respond to medical-related emergencies during the Traslacion 2026.

Based on PRC data, at least 1,288 patients were assisted at the PRC first aid hubs stationed along the procession’s routes.

Of this figure, 629 individuals underwent vital signs monitoring and 622 patients were treated for minor conditions such as dizziness, minor wounds, abrasions, sprains, burns, contusions, fever, and lacerations.

At least 17 patients required major medical intervention due to conditions such as deep lacerations, fractures, deformities, shortness of breath, and severe pain.

Twenty patients were transported to hospitals across Metro Manila for further treatment.

The PRC Emergency Field Hospital (EFH) at the Kartilya ng Katipunan, meanwhile, provided care to 44 patients, with 34 treated and discharged for minor conditions and 10 transported to nearby hospitals.

Patients were received through walk-ins, PRC ambulance referrals, and other responding groups like the Department of Health (DOH) who referred six patients, the organization said.

The PRC also extended welfare assistance to 2,204 individuals, including the distribution of 2,075 food packs, psychological support services, family tracing, referrals, and free communication assistance to help devotees reconnect with loved ones. — JMA, GMA Integrated News