By Kenneth Marcos 
As dawn breaks over Manila, thousands of barefoot devotees prepare to walk crowded streets in faith and prayer. The annual Traslacion of the Black Nazarene draws sea of people, all united by devotion, sacrifice, and hope. But this year, the event also carries another message—care for the environment.
The City Government of Manila, together with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), reminded devotees and the public to help keep the city clean during the Traslacion, which will be held tomorrow as part of the Feast of the Black Nazarene. The call comes as January is also observed nationwide as Zero Waste Month.
City officials urged participants to practice proper waste disposal and avoid littering during the religious event. With millions expected to join or witness the procession, authorities said even small actions, such as throwing trash in the right bins, can make a big difference.
The Traslacion is one of the largest religious gatherings in the country. Every year, tons of garbage are collected after the procession, including plastic bottles, food packaging, and other waste left along the route. This puts pressure on cleanup crews and can clog drainage systems if not managed properly.
Manila officials stressed that a clean environment is not only about order and discipline. Proper waste disposal helps prevent clogged canals and drainage lines, which often lead to flooding, especially during the rainy season. Flooding worsens the effects of climate change and poses risks to public health and safety.
January’s Zero Waste Month highlights the importance of reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling whenever possible. The city said this advocacy can still be practiced even during large public events like the Traslacion.
Devotees were encouraged to bring reusable water containers, avoid single-use plastics, and keep personal trash until they find proper disposal areas. Vendors were also reminded to follow waste management rules and ensure that their stalls do not contribute to litter along the procession route.
The MMDA said that maintaining cleanliness during the Traslacion requires cooperation from everyone. While street sweepers and garbage collectors will be deployed, authorities emphasized that public discipline remains the most effective solution.
Environmental groups have long pointed out that religious gatherings can also be opportunities to promote environmental responsibility. Faith and care for creation, they say, go hand in hand. A clean and orderly Traslacion reflects respect not only for the sacred image but also for fellow devotees and the community.
City officials added that simple actions, such as picking up after oneself, can help protect the environment and ensure a safer event for all. Clean streets reduce the risk of slips, injuries, and health concerns during the long procession.
As climate change continues to affect the country through stronger storms and flooding, local governments are pushing for greater public awareness and shared responsibility. Events like the Traslacion, with their massive attendance, are seen as critical moments to promote environmental values.
The City Government of Manila called on everyone joining the Traslacion to take part in the zero waste goal. By keeping the surroundings clean, devotees help protect the city, reduce flood risks, and show care for future generations.
As millions walk in faith tomorrow, authorities hope that devotion will also be shown through discipline, respect, and care for the environment—proving that even in the largest gatherings, unity and responsibility can go hand in hand.
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