Kissing of Black Nazarene image not allowed – organizers

THE Black Nazarene devotees have been told by organizers of the activities to observe health protocols as the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) persists.

In a press briefing, Alex Irasga, adviser of Quiapo Church, reminded the people that kissing the image of the Black Nazarene is prohibited during the “pagpupugay” (viewing or touching) at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila which starts on Saturday.

“Kissing of the image is not allowed, but they can touch the image or wipe it with their towel or handkerchief,” he said.
The church official said there will be personnel near the image to ensure that no one will kiss the image of the Black Nazarene during the entire event.

The “pagpupugay” will start at 1 a.m. of Jan. 7 until the feast day on Jan. 9.

There will be three lanes, separating males, females and persons with disabilities, senior citizens and pregnant women.

“The devotees will queue with physical distancing, and will disinfect before and after touching the image of the Black Nazarene,” he said.

The life-size image is on the stage at the center of the Quirino Grandstand.

Irasga added that the entrance for the “pagpupugay” will be at South Drive (left side facing the venue) while the exit is at Katigbak Drive.

There are also first aid teams and medical stations at the venue to respond to emergencies.