MANILA, Philippines– Both the national and local Manila City government announced that there will be no physical masses during the Feast of Black Nazarene on January 9. This mandate is due to the surge of COVID cases in Metro Manila.
Karlo Nograles, Acting Presidential Spokesman and Cabinet Secretary, announced on January 5 that these new measures were structured during the National Task Force Against COVID-19’s first motion of the year.
During the Malacañang press briefing, he showed the resolution that read “The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or Quiapo Church will be closed on January 7 to 9, 2022. No Holy Mass shall be physically conducted on these dates.” It also stated that all masses will be aired online.
Mayor Isko Moreno also agreed with the directive as he urged devotees to watch online masses instead. He announced the law enforcers will be stationed within the church’s area to lock entry points. Moreno also imposed a liquor ban during the Feast of Black Nazarene. This will begin January 8 (6PM) and last until January 10.