Devotees discouraged from kissing Black Nazarene image

Devotees are discouraged from directly kissing the image of Jesus Nazareno at the Quirino Grandstand for hygiene reasons.

The 'Pahalik' or 'Pagpupugay' activity for the Jesus Nazareno image at the Quirino Grandstand has ended, according to Quiapo Church.

Instead of the traditional 'pahalik,' attendees were encouraged to do 'pagpupugay,' which involves looking at the image.

In 2023, devotees were allowed to touch the image using a towel or handkerchief, a practice that continued until the 'Pahalik' ended.

The organizers also discouraged devotees from climbing the 'andas' or carriage of the Black Nazarene's image.

These measures aimed to prevent the spread of illnesses during the religious event, with officials also urging attendees to wear face masks.

While the 'Pahalik' has closed, the Traslacion or procession of the image of Jesus Nazareno from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church is still ongoing.