DOH to public: Practice minimum health standards during Pabasa, Lent activities

The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reminded the public to continue practicing minimum public health standards amid the observance of Holy Week.

In a public advisory, the DOH said those who will participate in Lent activities should wear masks properly and regularly, especially individuals taking part in the traditional reading of the Passion of Christ or ‘Pabasa.’

“Maraming nagsasagawa ng Pabasa ngayong Holy Week. Siguraduhing ligtas tayo sa pamamagitan ng pagsuot ng mask habang kumakanta o nagbabasa,” it said.

(Many devotees will conduct Pabasa this Holy Week. Let us ensure our safety by wearing masks while singing or reading.)

“Tandaan: Alert Level 2 man or 1, todong pag-iingat pa rin ang kailangan (Remember: Whether under Alert Level 2 or 1, extreme caution is still needed)!” it added.

Holy Week activities such as “Pabasa,” self-flagellation, "Visita Iglesia," and other processions are now allowed to resume, two years since the coronavirus outbreak.

The DOH warned the Philippines may possibly experience a surge in COVID-19 cases after the Holy Week break and the election season should the public ignore minimum health protocols.—AOL, GMA News