Manila city government announced the suspension of both work and classes in the city on January 9 in observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
The initiative will soon be the subject of an executive order (EO), according to Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna.
She also declared an alcohol ban for three days, from January 7 to January 9 for three days, stating that the EO could be issued "within the day."
Organizers of the annual religious event, on the other hand, issued a list of items that are permitted at the events in Quirino Grandstand and Quiapo Church.
According to Alex Irasga, adviser to the Quiapo Church, devotees or attendees are permitted to bring water canisters, sandwiches, and snacks, cellphones, registered VHF radios, and single-handedly carried images (two feet and below).
They are also permitted to bring a clear raincoat/poncho, shoes and slippers, small cameras, wheelchairs, single-seat, light chairs, flashlights, portable/small candles, and matchboxes.
Meanwhile, he reminded the public that the following items are prohibited: medium-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.
Umbrellas, alcoholic beverages, smoking/vaping, laser pointers, large chains, spikes, and other large metal objects, scooters, skateboards, skates, vehicles, motorbikes, bicycles (unless authorized), heavy meals, plastic and glass bottles, food sticks, pets, black plastics, and jackets are also prohibited.
From January 7 to 9, the image of the Black Nazarene will be on display at the Quirino Grandstand.
Four Masses will be held at the venue, the first on January 7 at 12:01 a.m., officiated by Fr. Fr. Hans Magdurolang will officiate at 6 a.m. for volunteers, local government unit personnel, non-government organization (NGO) members, uniformed personnel, and members of the media. Valdez, Earl.
Fr. will preside over the 12:01 a.m. Mass on January 8. The Walk of Faith will be followed by Rufino Sescon, Jr., rector of Quiapo Church.
The Fiesta Mass will be led by Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula at midnight on January 9.
