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January 9, 2026 | 12:15pm
A photo of Saksi's photojournalist, Itoh Son, covering a flooded area.
Itoh Son via Facebook
MANILA, Philippines — A tabloid photojournalist died while covering the Traslacion on Friday, January 9, according to the initial report of the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO).
The photojournalist, Itoh Son, worked for daily tabloid newspaper Saksi and was initially found unconscious with no pulse, lying down near the Manila Police District Station 5.
Radyo Pilipinas reported that Son's pulse was briefly restored while being rushed to Gat Andres Bonifacio Medical Center, all the way from Quirino Grandstand. Son, however, was declared dead on arrival at the hospital, which his relatives confirmed to authorities on Friday.
According to the Presidential Task Force on Media Security, Son had a heart attack early morning and had already been suffering from the flu over the past days. Yet, colleagues said he still continued to cover pre-Traslacion events, including the "Pahalik."
"Ang kanyang dedikasyon sa kanyang propesyon sa kabila ng kanyang karamdaman ay patunay ng kanyang pagmamahal sa kanyang trabaho at sa paghahatid ng mga mahalagang kaganapan sa publiko. Ang kanyang hindi matatawarang serbisyo sa larangan ng photojournalism ay magsisilbing inspirasyon sa iba," it said, offering condolences to Son's family and friends.
(His dedication to his profession despite his illness is proof of his love for his work and his commitment to bringing important events to the public. His invaluable service in the field of photojournalism will serve as an inspiration to others.)
The media security task force also said Son's experience should serve as a reminder for other media workers to watch out for their health and safety while fulfilling their duty as journalists.
"Sa gitna ng matinding dedikasyon, huwag kalimutan ang kahalagahan ng pag-aalaga sa sarili upang ipagpatuloy ang paglilingkod ng may pag-iingat at malasakit para sa kapwa," PTFOMS said in a statement.
(In the midst of intense dedication, do not forget the importance of self-care in order to continue serving with caution and compassion for others.)
The Traslacion is a yearly procession of the Black Nazarene statue from Intramuros to Quiapo Church. Hundreds of thousands of devotees take part, which annually prompts authorities to warn of stampedes and prepare for possible health risks caused by the crowded conditions. — with reports from News5
