Thousands of devotees attended Holy Mass at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila early Saturday ahead of today’s “Walk of Faith” as part of this year’s Feast of the Black Nazarene celebration—back after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
After the Mass, the “Pagpupugay” for the Black Nazarene officially started.
Unlike in pre-pandemic years where the “pahalik” or kissing of the image is allowed, this time devotees can only wipe their towels and touch the feet of the Black Nazarene during the ‘Pagpupugay.’
In Cebu, the Sinulog Festival is also officially back with a series of physical activities for the week-long celebration.
A pre-Sinulog event, the”Sinulog sa Kabataan,” will be held today while the Sinulog Grand Parade is scheduled for Jan. 15 at the South Road Properties.
For its part the Department of Health reminded the public to celebrate the Feast of the Black Nazarene in a safe manner.
“As regular festivities for Traslacion or the feast of the Black Nazarene commence this 2023, we remind everyone to be responsible devotees,” the DOH said in an advisory.
“The DOH reiterates the need to self-assess our risks as this will not only protect ourselves but as well as our loved ones and the community we belong in,” it added.
The DOH urged devotees to attend the different activities onlu if they are vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.
It encouraged the vulnerable groups such as the senior citizens, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women to just show their devotion at their respective homes.
“In case you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, colds, and coughing, its best to stay at home and quarantine to be safe,” the DOH said.