Young pilgrims pray before the altar of a Catholic church in Lumban, one of their Visita Iglesia (church visits) stops in Laguna province. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO / VAUGHN ALVIAR
The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday told the public, especially the faithful, who will go on Visita Iglesia or the visiting of churches during the Holy Week to not tag infants and the elderly along.
Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial explained that this is to protect them from diseases and viruses, Radyo Inquirer reported.
READ: Visita Iglesia guide for urban dwellers 1 | Visita Iglesia guide for urban dwellers 2
“Don’t bring small children or babies in crowded places to prevent them from contracting diseases, as babies have lower resistance against infections,” Ubial said.
She also said that it would be better for the elderly to stay home, particularly those with hypertension because of the hot weather.
Meanwhile, Ubial reminded those who will go on Visita Iglesia to wear comfortable clothes, and to bring enough drinking water to avoid dehydration.
Visita Iglesia is a tradition practiced by Catholics in the Philippines and is usually a family activity where the faithful visit 7 to 14 churches on Holy Thursday.
During the church visit, the faithful either pray at the Altar of Repose or make stops at the Stations of the Cross. CBB