Cagayan de oro: City officials have finalized traffic and security plans for the annual Black Nazarene "Traslacion" observance next month, anticipating large crowds. Nonito Oclarit, head of the Roads and Traffic Administration, emphasized that routing schemes are crucial to prevent traffic problems during the Jan. 9, 2026, religious procession. "The vigils at night (Jan. 8) will be continuous this year, unlike in the previous year, which had a curfew," Oclarit said in a radio interview.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, city departments, and police coordinated on the plans this week. The local government expects an influx of devotees from the city and neighboring provinces. Last year's event drew an estimated 13,000 people to the city's major streets.

Meanwhile, city officials reported less garbage and reduced firecracker activity Thursday morning following Christmas celebrations. Elvisa Mabelin, officer-in-charge of the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office, stated that early garbage collection starting at 3 a.m. helped keep major roads and markets clear. 'It is less messy now, unlike the previous years, but we are still hoping that vendors will also cooperate by properly gathering the garbage before collection,' Mabelin said in a radio interview. She credited public awareness from sustained information campaigns.

Nick Jabagat, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Department, noted that firecracker use was also down, though he warned it could increase for New Year's celebrations. 'We are still urging the public to avoid using illegal fireworks,' he said.