Those planning to attend the nine-day Simbang Gabi (dawn mass) were reminded to follow the health protocols being implemented in churches amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
"We appeal to everyone to respect and follow the safety health protocols being implemented for churchgoers," the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño-Tondo in Manila said in a Facebook post.
Mass-goers were reminded to wear face masks and face shields, bring alcohol and ballpen, and to have their body temperature checked.
The Tondo church said only those aged 18 to 65 years old will be allowed to attend the mass.
Those with children in tow will not be allowed to enter, it added.
Churchgoers were also asked to maintain a one-meter distance from each other.
Those who are sick are encouraged to stay at home and follow the live streaming of masses on social media.
The Santo Domingo Church in Quezon City also issued the same reminder to the faithful.
"The Santo Domingo Church will open the Church to the public but we must keep in mind that there is still the threat of COVID-19. Thus, in compliance with the requirements of the Inter-Agency Task Force and the Diocese of Cubao, there will be guidelines and protocols which will be followed," it said in a Facebook post.
"Please observe the IATF Rules on General Community Quarantine - wear face mask and face shield. We ask our faithful to be understanding and to follow such protocols," it added.
The traditional Simbang Gabi kicks off the Christmas season in the Philippines, which is a nine-day novena of Masses held prior to Christmas Day, usually at 4 a.m.
In urban areas such as Metro Manila, aside from the early morning Mass, they also have an anticipated Mass on the eve of December 15.