Black Nazarene ‘special coat’ ready in case of rainy ‘Traslacion’

According to Fr. Douglas Badong, Parochial Vicar of the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or Quiapo Church, they have prepared a transparent raincoat specially made for the image. (Photo: Oliver Marquez/ Philippine News Agency)

MANILA — Devotees do not have to worry about the image of the Black Nazarene getting wet in case heavy rains occur during the “Traslacion” or the procession of the icon early dawn Tuesday.

According to Fr. Douglas Badong, Parochial Vicar of the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or Quiapo Church, they have prepared a transparent raincoat specially made for the image.

“We have a special raincoat made, including a hood. It will be decent and transparent so that the devotees can still see the image,” he said, noting that it is part of their preparations.

In its special weather outlook for Tuesday, state weather agency Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said “good weather condition will prevail in the morning with passing showers in the afternoon or evening over the city of Manila and the rest of National Capital Region.”

Badong noted that the rope that is tailing the “andas” is brand new and will stretch for about a meter.

With this, the Catholic priest said the old ropes that were used in previous years are available for those who want a piece of it as many people believe that it brings luck.

“Nakatambak doon. Although sabi ko nga kung gusto nyo lubid bibigyan ko kayo after ng procession. Naka-prepare ‘yun. Binalot ko na siya ng plastic para mas presentable naman. ‘Yung iba kasi nginangatngat para makakuha ng hibla, (It is piled up there. Although, I already said that those who want a piece may ask for one after the procession. It is already prepared. It is wrapped in a plastic bag so it looks presentable. It’s because some are gnawing it just to get a strand.)” he added.

At the same time, Badong reminded the devotees who are at the Quirino Grandstand to secure and take care of their belongings and to be more careful if their children are with them.

The Quiapo church official noted that medical teams and policemen are ready to assist them in case they need it.

On the other hand, organizers urged pregnant women as well as those with small children and persons with disabilities not to join the activity.