BY MINKA KLAUDIA S. TIANGCO
The annual traslacion of the Black Nazarene will not be held in 2021 amid the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Manila city government confirmed Friday morning.
The decision was made during a meeting between Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and Quiapo Church officials on Thursday afternoon.
Instead of a procession, Quiapo Church rector Monsignor Hernando Coronel said more masses will be held for the devotees.
“Ang mangyayari po sa January 9 ay patuloy na mga misa, at ‘yung ating mga bikaryo ay ilalagay po natin sa canopy po sa labas ng simbahan,” Coronel said.
Coronel admitted he was saddened by the cancellation of the annual procession but stressed that the church and the public must adhere to the government-issued health protocols such as physical distancing and the wearing of face masks and shields.
Domagoso asked the Black Nazarene devotees for understanding.
“Nakikisuyo po ako, iwasan po muna natin ang mga parada at prusisyon ngayong may pandemya dulot ng sakit na COVID-19. Maaari pong mapahamak ang ating mga deboto, mailagay sila sa alanganin,” he said in a statement.
Earlier, the Manila mayor called on church officials to make plans for upcoming religious events in light of the pandemic. (Minka Tingco)
