Bags, umbrellas not allowed in Luneta papal Mass

Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Malacañang on Thursday advised the faithful who will troop to meet Pope Francis on January 18 that bags and umbrellas will not be allowed on the grounds of Luneta Park and Quirino Grandstand.

Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. appealed for understanding as the protocol will be implemented for security reasons.
Coloma assured that the protocol will be carried out “within the bounds of reasonability.”

“We’re just stating as a general principle that as much as possible, bring only food,” he said.

The food items which would be brought to the area should be placed in “clear and transparent containers.”

Organizers are considering putting up drop-off points where people from the provinces could leave their belongings.

Coloma said that instead of umbrellas, which could obstruct the view of other attendees, the public could bring hats and fans instead.

He said security marshals will be deployed and health areas for emergency and first aid situations will be put up around the area.

Pope Francis is scheduled to say Mass at the Quirino Grandstand on January 18, which is expected to draw millions of Catholics to Manila.

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