Thousands throng Manila for Catholic feast
7
Social distancing strictly enforced in long queues to view Black Nazarene statue
published : 9 Jan 2021 at 16:25
7 Roman Catholic devotees observe physical distancing while attending mass on the feast day of the Black Nazarene, outside Quiapo Church in Manila, on Saturday. (Reuters Photo)
MANILA: Tens of thousands of people ignored government advice and flocked to Manila on Saturday to celebrate the feast of the Black Nazarene, a statue believed to have healing powers.
An estimated 400,000 people have been through the city’s Quiapo district since 4am local time, Lieut Col Carlo Magno Manuel, spokesman for the Manila Police District, told reporters. Because of coronavirus restrictions, only 400 visitors at a time were allowed inside the church where the statue stands.