Palace declares Jan 9, Feast of the Black Nazarene, a holiday in Manila

MANILA, Philippines: Malacanang on Thursday issued Proclamation 434 declaring Jan. 9, 2024 a special non-working day in the City of Manila to give way for the observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

“It is but fitting and proper that the people of the City of Manila be given full opportunity to participate in the occasion and enjoy the celebration,” the circular, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on January 4, read.

Hundreds of thousands of Catholic devotees are expected to flock to Quiapo Church, as well as the Quirino Grandstand to profess their faith to the Black Nazarene.

Next week’s celebration marks the return of the procession of the Black Nazarene or Traslacion after a 3-year break due to the pandemic.

Below is a copy of the proclamation: