Palace reminds devotees of health rules during Black Nazarene Feast

Malacañang on Saturday reminded devotees to observe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) protocols as they celebrate the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that this year’s celebration will be different due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As we offer our fervent prayers for ourselves, our family, and our beloved country, we must not forget that we have to ensure strict adherence to minimum public health standards,” Roque said.

“We understand that many of our devotees see this occasion as a ‘panata,’ the safety and physical well-being of everyone, however, remain paramount. We, therefore, need everyone’s cooperation in this regard,” he added.

The National Capital Region Police Office earlier said that though the Feast has been generally peaceful, devotees in some areas couldn't help but violate social distancing measures.

Roque, meanwhile, requested local authorities to strictly observe and implement physical distancing.

He added that the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases will also monitor the situation.

“On the other hand, we call on the public who are planning to go to Quiapo to avoid going there and just watch or listen to online masses instead,” Roque said.

“For the devotees who are already in the area, wear your face mask/face shield properly, wash or sanitize your hands, and follow other protocols being implemented by the Church and local authorities,” he added.

This year’s Traslacion was canceled due to the pandemic.  — DVM, GMA News