QC shortens curfew starting Dec. 16 for Simbang Gabi

MANILA, Philippines — Quezon City shortened curfew hours from midnight to 3 a.m. starting Dec. 16 to allow people to attend Simbang Gabi, although basic health protocols will still be strictly enforced for holiday celebrations.

In a statement, Mayor Joy Belmonte said churches should only take in 30 percent of its capacity for the Simbang Gabi.

“Simbang Gabi is part of the Christmas celebration and our culture. So even during a pandemic, we want to keep its spirit alive,” Belmonte said in Filipino.

Fireworks displays will be allowed only at the Quezon Memorial Circle and Eastwood, and they should be livestreamed “so anyone can enjoy it without having to go out of their homes,” she said.

“Outdoor or indoor venues for special events, such as restaurants, hotel ballrooms or function rooms and mall atriums, may be used for work-related or commercial purposes, but subject to social distancing and strict compliance with minimum health standards,” she added.

The health information of participants of work and commercial gatherings should be recorded and submitted to barangay health officers or the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU) at any time on request for contact tracing.

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