Authorities are now dismantling obstructions at the Plaza Miranda and are placing disinfectants in preparation for the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Saturday.
The implementation of health protocols is already in place as the influx of devotees is expected on Friday amid the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. A maximum of 300 individuals are only allowed to enter Quiapo Church who are required to fill out contact tracing forms and wear face masks and face shields.
Several LED screens have already been placed outside the church where health protocols will be strictly implemented. Police personnel have already been deployed with rattan sticks to enforce physical distancing. The public has been reminded that minors and senior citizens will not be allowed in the area.
“Sa barangay pa lang, dapat hindi na sila makalabas, ‘di na sila payagan. Kasi ‘pag pumunta ‘yan dito sa Quiapo at nakarating ‘yan sa pintuan ng simbahan, tatanggapin namin (They should not be allowed to go out of their barangays. Because if they come to Quiapo and reach the church doors, we will accept them),” Quiapo Church Parochial Vicar Fr. Douglas Badong advised.
The celebration of the feast this year will do away with the traditional procession of the Black Nazarene to prevent virus transmission. Masses in Quiapo will begin at 4:30 in the morning until 10:30 in the evening.
The church encouraged the faithful to attend mass in their local churches to avoid crowding. Attending live mass on social media is also advised. – Report from Cleizl Pardilla
