Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 13) — It’s all systems go for the celebration of the Feast of Sto. Niño in Tondo and Pandacan in Manila this weekend.
While this year marks the return of some traditions, some were also replaced because of COVID-19 restrictions.
Here’s what to expect in this year’s Feast of Sto. Niño celebration:
Motorcade replaces traditional “Lakbayaw”
The traditional “Lakbayaw” is a procession accompanied by dance and music during the Feast of Sto. Niño de Tondo.
This year, it will be replaced by a motorcade, which begins at 7:00 a.m. on Jan. 14, according to the Archdiocesan Shrine of Sto. Niño in Tondo.
Fiesta masses will also be held from 3:00 p.m. to midnight.
On the feast day itself on Jan. 15, masses will be from 12:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Consecutive masses will also be held from 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 15 at the Sto. Niño Parish in Pandacan.
The Feast of the Sto. Niño de Tondo and Sto. Niño de Pandacan is celebrated in the two Manila parishes every third Sunday of the year in honor of the infant Jesus.
Return of street dance competition
This year marks the return of the “Buling-Buling ng Maynila sa Pandacan” dance festival and “Lakbayaw” street dance festival competition.
“Hindi man siya [Lakbayaw dance contest] yung parties o parada na nakasanayan noong pre-pandemic, but at least now magkakaroon ng pagkakataon magkaroon ng ati-atihan na sayaw,” Princess Abante, Office of the Mayor Head of Communications, told CNN Philippines.
[Translation: It may not be the parties or parades we were used to during pre-pandemic times, but at least we have a chance to hold the ati-atihan again.]
“First time din po ulit magkakaroon ng pagsayaw ng Buling-Buling sa kalye ng Pandacan,” she added.
[Translation: It’s also the first time the Buling-Buling sa Pandacan dance festival will be back.]
Road closure
The Manila Police District (MPD) announced several road closures and alternative routes effective Jan. 14 to 15 to give way to the festivities.
Abante said affected roads will reopen after the festivitives.
Liquor ban
On Thursday, the City of Manila also imposed a liquor ban in parts of Tondo and Pandacan this weekend. It will also implement an ordinance prohibiting the drinking of liquor and other alcoholic beverages in public places such as streets and alleys.
“Ang liquor ban natin is within the immediate vicinity of the churches na tampok sa fiesta. Hindi ito para sa buong Pandacan at Tondo. Ang liquor ban din ay pagbabawal sa pagbenta,” Abante said.
[Translation: The liquor ban is for areas within the immediate vicinity of the churches involved in the fiesta.This is not for the whole Tondo and Pandacan. A liquor ban also prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages.]
Safety and security
MPD Director Brigadier General Andre Dizon told CNN Philippines around 600 personnel will be deployed to secure the festivities this weekend.
The MDP also implemented a gun ban from Jan. 14 to 16 in the City of Manila.
The Manila Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Office will also be on standby for possible emergencies.
Abante reminded the public to wear face masks and to observe physical distance during the festivities.
