SC suspends work, Marcos Jr. declares Jan 9 holiday for Black Nazarene feast

Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo announced that work at the Supreme Court would be suspended on Thursday, January 9, for the Feast of the Black Nazarene celebration.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared January 9 as a special non-working holiday in Manila to allow public participation in the significant religious event.

The SC Deputy Clerk of Court and chief administrative officer Maria Carina Cunanan issued a memorandum stating that while work is suspended, certain sections such as the Docket-Receiving Section and Cash Collection and Disbursement Division would maintain a skeletal workforce.

These essential staff members are required to ensure the smooth operation of critical functions within the Supreme Court during the holiday.

Work in trial courts in Manila will also be suspended on January 9.

Last year's event drew 6.5 million devotees, and this year's celebration is expected to draw even larger crowds.