Manila: Thousands of devotees are expected to take part in the traditional "pahalik," a key event of the Feast of Jesus Nazareno that will begin Wednesday evening at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.

According to Philippines News Agency, the number of participants is anticipated to be in the thousands, although the exact figure remains fluid. Alex Irasga, technical adviser of Quiapo Church, mentioned in an interview on Tuesday that security personnel have already been deployed to ensure a smooth and orderly flow of devotees during the event, which will continue until Friday.

"The 'pahalik' is usually the most orderly event we have," Irasga added. Devotees are advised to join the queue at South Drive or Kalaw Avenue Extension in front of the Rizal Park Hotel, with the exit point also located at South Drive.

The "pahalik" provides an opportunity for devotees to venerate the image of Jesus Nazareno by kissing or touching the cross, hands, and feet. Organizers have announced that the event will commence at 7 p.m. on Wednesday and continue until Friday, ahead of the grand procession, or Traslacion, the highlight of the feast.