Still no ‘pahalik’ for this year’s Feast of the Black Nazarene

FILE PHOTO Devotees of the Black Nazarene gather at the Quirino Grandstand for the traditional “pahalik.” –MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

MANILA, Philippines — For the second straight year, there will be no “pahalik” (kissing of the image) on the Feast of the Black Nazarene as the country continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic.

“Wala pa rin po [pahalik], pagdungaw lang (There is still no pahalik, only viewing),” Fr. Douglas Badong, parochial vicar of the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or more commonly known as the Quiapo Church, said in an interview with Teleradyo on Sunday.

Badong said devotees who want to view the image of the Black Nazarene can visit Sta. Cruz Church where it will be placed for nine days.

“Malaki na rin ang simbahan ng Sta. Cruz, kayang mag-accommodate ng marami (The Sta. Cruz Church is huge so it can accommodate a lot of people),” Badong said.

The tradition of “pahalik” which saw devotees lining up to kiss the image of the Black Nazarene was also canceled last year.

This is just among the adjustments made by the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene to ensure the safety of everyone during this year’s celebration amid the pandemic.

The traditional traslacion, where a procession of the Black Nazarene is held across parts of Manila, will also be suspended for the second straight year to avoid overcrowding amid the pandemic.

EDV