The EcoWaste Coalition urged on Tuesday, Jan 4, devotees of the Black Nazarene to follow health protocols and to keep their surroundings clean during the Jan. 9 religious activity in Manila.
In a statement, the group said devotees should ensure that they would not litter especially in Quiapo district where the devotees are expected to converge.
Despite the cancellation of the traditional "Traslacion" (an annual procession to commemorate the transfer of the Black Nazarene from its original shrine in Intramuros to Quiapo Church) and "pahalik" (kissing the image of Black Nazarene, which is believed to bring miracles), a number of devotees are still expected to visit the Quiapo Church on Jan. 9.
Aside from the devotees, the EcoWaste Coalition also reminded feast organizers, food givers, and vendors to observe trash-free surroundings noting that January is "Zero Waste Month" as per Proclamation 760.
"For all fiesta participants, avoid all types of fiesta waste and never abandon trash on the streets, street gutters, sidewalks, parks, and plant boxes," the statement said.
Likewise, the group appealed to political candidates and their supporters to avoid putting up tarpaulin banners and posters in Quiapo.
"We call upon the followers of the Black Nazarene to keep the faith-inspired celebration COVID-safe and trash-free regardless of where they will mark the feast day – in their own homes, in local parishes, or Quiapo," EcoWaste Coalition Zero Waste Campaigner Jove Benosa said.
"We want last year's 'waste-less' celebration held amid the COVID-19 pandemic repeated for the second time," Benosa added.