Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency (PNA).
The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday advised devotees experiencing flu-like symptoms to refrain from joining activities for the Feast of the Jesus Nazarene in 2026 to prevent the spread of illness in crowded areas.
DOH Assistant Secretary Gloria Balboa said that while influenza cases remain within normal levels, individuals with cough, colds, or similar symptoms should consider staying home for their own safety and that of others.
She warned that mass gatherings increase the risk of transmitting diseases that spread through droplets or airborne particles, making preventive action especially important during religious events that draw large crowds.
“As a reminder, for example, if we are coughing—regardless of what type of influenza or flu it is—we hope people will just stay at home,” Balboa said.
For those who still intend to attend despite mild symptoms, Balboa recommended wearing face masks to reduce the risk of infecting fellow devotees.
Church officials echoed the health advisory, particularly for participants of the “pahalik,” a ritual that involves touching or kissing the image of the Jesus Nazarene. Rev. Fr. Robert Arellano suggested that devotees feeling unwell may instead take part through online livestreams.
Rev. Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan assured the public that church staff regularly clean the image during the ritual but reiterated that those with flu symptoms should avoid physical contact. The “pahalik” is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, ahead of the annual procession.