Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has certified as safe the major bridges that will be used during the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene.
Domagoso made the announcement during a press briefing as part of the city’s preparations for Nazareno 2026.
The mayor said the certification was issued following a formal request by the city government for the inspection of bridges along the Traslacion route.
“The other day, I asked the City Engineering Office to update me regarding our request to certify bridges in the City of Manila where our procession or Traslacion will pass through. We got already the certification (from DPWH),” he told reporters.
The four bridges (Quezon Bridge, Carlos Palanca Bridge, Ayala Bridge, Arlegui Bridge 1) were rated to be in “fair” condition.
According to the certification issued by the DPWH–National Capital Region, the Quezon Bridge, Carlos Palanca Bridge, Ayala Bridge, and Arlegui Bridge 1 were assessed based on the 2025 Road and Bridge Inventory and Assessment of the region.
The four bridges were rated to be in “fair” condition following inspections conducted by DPWH engineers.
“The assessment is crucial given the volume of devotees expected to participate in the annual religious procession.”
Domagoso stressed that the assessment is crucial given the volume of devotees expected to participate in the annual religious procession.
“This is a very important matter to us as a City Government, that we are being assured by the National Government na ligtas tawirin ang ating mga tulay,” he said.
The DPWH certification also noted that railings and barricades on the bridges were found to be properly installed, secured, and in good serviceable condition, with no obstructions observed along bridge decks and pedestrian pathways that could pose risks to public safety during regular use.
Domagoso noted that several bridges in Manila are currently undergoing repairs under DPWH supervision, but said overall conditions remain acceptable for the event.
“As you all know, some of our bridges are being fixed by the National Government through DPWH. So all in all, okay naman,” Domagoso said, as he assured devotees and the public that safety measures are in place ahead of the Traslacion.
In the case of Quezon Bridge, the DPWH said rehabilitation works are currently ongoing, including the installation of temporary shoring to support the structure during repairs.
The agency said these activities are being properly managed and monitored in accordance with applicable safety and engineering standards.
The DPWH further stated that it has “no objection” to the use of the four bridges as part of the Traslacion route, provided that no vehicles are allowed to pass along the entire stretch during the procession.
