Photojournalist dies during Traslacion coverage

VETERAN TABLOID photojournalist Itoh Son, 55, died while covering the annual Traslacion of the Black Nazarene in Manila early Friday morning, January 9, 2026. Son, who worked the daily tabloid Saksi,  was found unconscious and without a pulse in the vicinity of Quirino Grandstand near Manila Police District (MPD) Station 5, according to the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO). 

Emergency responders rushed him to Gat Andres Bonifacio Memorial Medical Center, where he was declared dead on arrival, officials and relatives confirmed.

Colleagues said Son had been suffering from flu symptoms in the days before the event, but continued to cover pre-Traslacion activities, including the traditional “Pahalik” devotion. 

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) extended its condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Itoh Son, recognizing his dedication to journalism and his commitment to work despite illness. In a statement, PTFOMS said Son’s service reflects the sacrifices made by media workers in covering major public events, and urged journalists to prioritize their health and safety while performing their duties, especially in physically demanding and high-risk situations such as the Traslacion.

In its statement, PTFOMS said, “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.” (In the midst of intense dedication, do not forget the importance of self-care in the performance of duty.) 

The Traslacion, one of the biggest religious processions in the country, draws hundreds of thousands of devotees. The magnitude of the crowds causes significant stress on participants and the press covering the event. Authorities routinely deploy medical and safety personnel throughout the day to address the threat of heat, crowding and other health risks. This year, four people died while participating in the devotion. 

CMFR extends sympathy to Son’s family, colleagues, and the broader media community. The incident underscores ongoing dialogue around journalist health and safety, particularly during major events where the demands of coverage and dense crowds present real risks.

The wake for Son started on Saturday, January 10, at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City.