Cebu mayor urges Sto. Niño devotees to attend novena mass in their hometowns

Mayor Edgardo Labella urged Santo Niño devotees coming from outside Cebu City to attend novena masses in their respective hometowns.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, strict health protocols are being implemented in this year's Feast of the Santo Niño or the Sinulog Festival.

In Lou Anne Rondina's report for "24 Oras," the mayor said the situation at the Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño was "generally peaceful" but still told out of town pilgrims to refrain from making the trip.

"It will not lessen the blessing of the Señor Santo Niño. Because if there is one who can be very understanding, it is the good lord, it is the Sto. Niño," Labella said.

Social distancing measures were followed during the Opening Salvo as only 50% of churchgoers were allowed inside the Basilica.

Physical activities were also canceled in light of the pandemic, such as the Translacion, the Fluvial Procession, and the Sinulog Grand Parade.

The Feast of the Sto. Niño is celebrated in remembrance of the virtues of Jesus Christ as a child.

—MGP, GMA News