Bishop requests LGUs to adjust curfew hours during Simbang Gabi

Archdiocese of Manila apostolic administrator Bishop Broderick Pabillo has asked the local government to adjust the curfew hours during the observance of “Simbang Gabi” (dawn masses) this December.

“We are waiting for the local government units (LGUs), especially about the curfew,” he said over church-run Radio Veritas

“We are asking that they adjust the end of the curfew to 3:30 am during those days of Simbang Gabi and no curfew on December 24 evening,” added Pabillo.

The prelate said this after Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso asked the

Church to start preparing guidelines on the conduct of Simbang Gabi in consideration of the existing health protocols of the government.

The traditional Misa de Gallo or Simbang Gabi kicks off the Christmas season in the Philippines, which is a nine-day novena of Masses held prior to Christmas Day, usually at 4 a.m.

In urban areas such as Metro Manila, aside from the early morning Mass, they also have an anticipated Mass on the eve of Dec. 15.

The Simbang Gabi Masses are culminated with the “Misa de Gallo” on Christmas Eve.

Manila and Quezon City are currently implementing curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., while others localities implement it earlier during the community quarantine.