MALACAÑANG expressed gratitude on Tuesday, January 10, for the "orderly and peaceful" celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene held Monday.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar lauded the organizers and the concerned government agencies for being able to secure the devotees from any harm and security threats during the procession of the Black Nazarene or the Traslacion.

"We congratulate the organizers and all concerned agencies of government for the orderly and peaceful celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene [on Monday]," Andanar said in a statement.

"No major untoward incident happened during this year's Traslacion of Black Nazarene. There were even no reports of petty crimes during the 22-hour long procession. Good job to everyone," he added.

The Traslacion this year took 22 hours, an hour longer compared last year. It started around 5:30 a.m. Monday at the Quirino Granstand in Manila.

Despite threats from the country's terrorist groups, no untoward incidents were recorded by the authorities.

Only about 1,000 out of more than a million devotees who joined the procession were treated for minor wounds, dizziness, and fainting spells. (Sunnex)