Filipinos defy pandemic rules for Black Nazarene Feast

Thousands of Catholic devotees observed physical distancing as they queued for Masses on Saturday, January 9, at Quiapo Church to pray before a centuries-old black wooden statue of Jesus Christ believed to bring miracles.

Despite persistent reminders from authorities and health officials to stay home due to the ongoing pandemic, many Filipinos still gathered in Manila to celebrate the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

Church leaders organized 15 Masses at Quiapo Church and livestreamed worship services, allowing only 400 devotees inside the church at a time while thousands more heard Mass outside.

The annual procession was canceled this year due to health protocols, but some devotees disregarded warnings and flocked to the church, drawing mixed reactions from netizens who criticized their disregard for health guidelines.