People who will join the Penitential Walk with Jesus at 4 a.m. on January 11, 2024 are advised to be vigilant about yellow separators along the Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City in line with the ongoing Bus Rapid Transit project.

The project failed to meet its intended completion of work by yearend of 2023 because of the delayed discussion on the tearing down of two skywalks along the said boulevard.

The road stretch which is the procession route of the annual Walk with Jesus may be challenging to procession-goers.

“As we traverse Osmeña Boulevard, we urge everyone to be mindful of the yellow separator," Rev. Fr. John Ion Miranda, media liaison of the Basilica del Santo Nino de Cebu, said.

He also called on procession-goers to dress appropriately.

“Since this is NOT a Mardi gras, or street party, kindly wear appropriate clothing,” Fr. Miranda underscored. 

The walk will start at Fuente Osmeña in midtown Cebu City. The procession will lead to the opening of the novena for the Fiesta Señor.

Around 300 police personnel will be deployed at the vicinity of the basilica, while around 80 blue guards will also be deployed by the basilica. Huge bags and backpacks will be prohibited inside the basilica. 

These measures will help ensure the safety and security of church-goers.

“Let us be vigilant also. Let us eliminate the opportunity for people nga makabuhat sila og salaud,” Lt. Col. Janette Rafter, spokesperson and deputy director for operations of the Cebu City Police Office, said.

A ceremonial send-off of police personnel who will serve at the basilica and in related religious activities is set on January 10, 2024.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama earlier ordered for the removal of construction debris or obstructions at the said road stretch to ensure the safety of people who will join the procession.

Further, the public is reminded that the “dagkutanan” or area for lighting candles is transferred at the grounds of Colegio del Santo Niño adjacent to the basilica.

As the basilica can accommodate 5,000 people only at a time, additional LED walls will be mounted outside for virtual access to the Holy Masses.