
The Department of Health (DOH) reminded the public to celebrate the Feast of the Black Nazarene in a safe manner amid the ongoing threat of the Covid-19 virus.
"As regular festivities for Traslacion or the feast of the Black Nazarene commence this 2023, we remind everyone to be responsible devotees," the DOH said in an advisory.
"The DOH reiterates the need to self-assess our risks as this will not only protect ourselves but as well as our loved ones and the community we belong in," it added.
The DOH urged devotees to only attend the different activities if they are vaccinated and boosted against Covid-19.
It encouraged the vulnerable groups such as the senior citizens, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women to just show their devotion at their respective homes.
"In case you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, colds, and coughing, its best to stay at home and quarantine to be safe," the DOH said.
"The Department still encourages every Juan and Juana to celebrate through 'localized' and online gatherings to prevent the spread of Covid-19," it added.
Devotees should also bring extra masks, umbrella, extra pair of clothes and towels, as well as sanitary kits.
"Be attentive of your surroundings and belongings to help prevent malicious activity as well as to help mitigate transmission of the virus," the DOH reminded.
"Continue to employ our layers of protection, which are known to be effective not only for Covid-19 but for other transmissible diseases as well," it added.
On Saturday, Jan. 7, several devotees started to go to the Quirino Grandstand to participate in the "Pagpupugay" or the viewing and touching of the image of the Black Nazarene. This event will run until the actual feast on Jan. 9.
The estimated crowd count at the Quirino Grandstand as of Saturday noon was 3,150.
A procession called "Walk of Faith" is also set to be conducted in the early hours of Jan. 8.
These two activities replaced the traditional "Pahalik" and "Traslacion" events in order to minimize the risk of Covid-19 transmission.