Isko inspects Quiapo ahead of Traslacion

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Mayor Isko Moreno yesterday inspected the preparations and the implementation of health protocols for the 415th Traslacion or Feast of the Black Nazarene today.

Moreno was joined by Manila Police District director Brig. Gen. Leo Francisco and MPD Station 3 commander Lt. Col. John Guiagui.

Moreno reminded devotees to worship the Black Nazarene in their respective homes as the threat of COVID-19 remains.

He also said online classes will be suspended today in anticipation of connectivity issues.

Moreno said the city government will also strictly implement a ban on the selling and drinking of liquor in public places.

Quiapo Church rector Msgr. Hernando Coronel echoed Moreno’s call for devotees to stay home, saying this does not lessen the power of their prayers.

There will be a total of 15 masses, with 30-minute intervals for disinfection of the church, to mark the feast of the Black Nazarene. The first mass will be held at 4:30 a.m. and will be presided by Most Rev. Broderick Pabillo.

Church officials reminded the public that only 400 devotees will be allowed into the church per mass while others can hear mass using the LED screens set up outside the church.

Meanwhile, Antipolo Auxiliary Bishop Nolly Buco, who presided over the ninth and last novena mass for the Feast of the Black Nazarene at the Quiapo Church yesterday, said the feast is an opportunity for devotees to storm the heavens with prayers for the country’s healing from COVID-19.

Health protocol  violators face arrest

Francisco warned that 6,000 police officers from the MPD and the National Capital Region Police Office, equipped with yantok or wooden sticks, and 1,000 force multipliers from the city government will be deployed today to enforce physical distancing.

Devotees who violate health protocols would be arrested, he said.

The MPD’s traffic enforcement unit closed the northbound and southbound lanes of Quezon Boulevard from A. Mendoza/Fugoso to Carlos Palanca street; westbound lane of España Boulevard from P. Campa to A. Mendoza street; stretch of Evangelista street from P. Paterno street to Recto Avenue; and the stretch of Palanca street from Carriedo/Plaza Lacson to P. Casal street starting yesterday until today. – Ralph Edwin Villanueva