Article by:
Ferdinand Patinio
MANILA – The Manila City government on Tuesday announced that there will be no work and classes in the city on Jan. 9 in observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
Mayor Honey Lacuna said an executive order (EO) is set to be released for the measure.
At the same time, she announced that a liquor ban will be imposed for three days from Jan. 7 to Jan. 9.
“Yes, we will issue an executive order regarding the liquor ban and that includes the executive order declaring January 9 as a holiday in the City of Manila,” the mayor said at the press briefing on the preparations for the Nazareno 2023.
She added the EO may be released as early as “within the day.”
On the other hand, organizers of the annual religious event issued a list of things that are allowed at the events in Quirino Grandstand and Quiapo Church.
Alex Irasga, Quiapo Church adviser, said devotees or attendees are allowed to bring water canisters, sandwiches and snacks, cellphones, registered VHF radio and single-hand carried images (two feet and below).
They may also bring transparent raincoat/poncho, shoes and slippers, small cameras, wheelchairs, single-seat, light chairs, flashlights, portable/small candles and matchboxes.
Meanwhile, he reminded the public that they are prohibited to bring the following: medium-size to life-size Nazareno images; Istandarte/banners, carriages or "andas"; firearms and deadly weapons; pyrotechnic devices, professional camera and video recorder, selfie sticks, large bags, blankets, hampers, storage boxes, portable appliances, liquified petroleum gas (LPG) tanks and stoves, tents, tables and other picnic items.
The public is also not allowed to bring umbrellas, alcoholic beverages, smoking/vaping, laser pointers, large chains, spikes and other big metal objects, scooters, skateboards, skates, vehicles, motorbikes, bicycles (unless you are authorized), heavy meals, plastic and glass bottles, food sticks, pets, black plastics and jacket.
The image of the Black Nazarene will be on display at the Quirino Grandstand from Jan. 7 to 9.
Four Masses will be held at the venue -- Jan. 7, at 12:01 am, for the devotees to be officiated by Fr. Hans Magdurolang and at 6 a.m., for volunteers, local government unit personnel, non-government organization (NGO) members, uniformed personnel and members of the media to be officiated by Fr. Earl Valdez.
On Jan. 8, the 12:01 am Mass will be presided by Fr. Rufino Sescon, Jr., rector of Quiapo Church to be followed by the Walk of Faith.
Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula will lead the Fiesta Mass at midnight on Jan. 9. (PNA)
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