Iloilo Representative Janette Garin urges churches across the country to disinfect pews and images of saints as a precaution against COVID-19.
Garin notes that Filipinos often touch holy water fonts and images of saints, practices which could facilitate virus transmission.
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued guidelines urging priests and the faithful to follow hygiene protocols such as proper handwashing and avoiding body contact.
Archbishop Romulo Valles emphasizes the need for temporary adjustments in church practices without changing traditions.
Manila's Apostolic Administrator Bishop Broderick Pabillo advises suspending dipping hands in holy water, placing alcohol bottles at entrances, and regularly cleaning frequently touched areas.
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