The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said that parishes may use other tree branches to make the ashes for this year's observance of Ash Wednesday.
In a statement titled "Distribution of ashes in time of pandemic," CBCP Episcopal Commission on Liturgy Chairman Bishop Victor Bendico said that non-palm branches will be allowed to be used on Ash Wednesday that will happen on February 17.
"We would like to add that the ashes that will be used for this year’s Ash Wednesday can be from dried branches of leaves of plants or tress," said Bendico.
This after "many parishes will find it difficult to secure old palm branches blessed in the celebration of Palm Sunday of 2020,” said Bendico
"Our celebration last year was in the absence of our people because of the strict lockdown and only few palm branches were blessed on the occasion," he said.
To note, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent season.
Meanwhile, Bendico said that the CBCP will be issuing liturgical guidelines for the observance of Lent amid the ongoing threat of the pandemic.
“As we approach the celebrations of the Lenten season and the threat of the spread of Covid-19, we still need to consider and plan our liturgical celebrations according to the recommendations of our health experts and at the same time provide our faithful with solemn and meaningful celebrations according to the requirements of the liturgical principles of the Church,” he said.