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Bureau of Diplomatic Security
U.S. Department of State

*OSAC does not issue alerts. These notices are sourced from the issuing  U.S. Embassy & Consulate

Security Alert: Large Procession Planned For Black Nazarene on January 9, 2025

January 6, 2026
 

 

U.S. Embassy Manila, Philippines 

U.S. Consular Agency Cebu, Philippines

Location: Ermita and Quiapo, Metro Manila

Event: Millions of Catholic devotees are expected to gather in Quiapo and Quirino Grandstand for the Feast of Black Nazarene.  The Feast of the Black Nazarene, which began on December 31, 2025, will culminate in a grand procession on January 9, 2026.  The event will start at the Quirino Grandstand near Rizal Park (Luneta) in Ermita, Manila, where millions of devotees traditionally gather for the annual celebration and march towards the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno (Quiapo Church) in Quiapo, Manila.  A large police presence is expected to maintain security throughout the event.  There will be road closures.  Motorists may wish to consider alternate routes.

The U.S. Embassy in Manila will remain open on January 9, 2026, for regular operations.  For emergencies or other issues associated with scheduled appointments, please call +63 (2) 5301-2000 or email the American Citizens Services Unit at ACSInfoManila@state.gov.

Actions to Take: 

  • U.S. citizens planning to join the event are advised to use caution due to dangers associated with large crowds and the possibility of a delay in receiving immediate medical attention in the area.
  • Follow local news, Philippine National Police, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and City of Manila social media/websites closer to January 9 for real-time updates and official road closure maps.

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For further information and assistance:

  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines, located at 1201 Roxas Boulevard, at +(63) (2) 5301-2000, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +(63) (2) 5301-2000.
  • Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the State Department’s travel website  for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Advisories, Alerts, and the Philippines Country Specific Information .
  • Follow us on  and Facebook .
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