MANILA (UCAN): Christians in the Philippines will be allowed to go door-to-door to sing carols this Christmas as long as they observe certain Covid-19 health protocols. It means people may once again visit relatives and friends to sing carols dressed in yuletide costumes.
On November 10, the Department of Health lifted a ban on the tradition which was imposed last year because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Singers must remember that caroling must only take place outdoors while wearing face masks or face shields,” health undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said.
“The public needs to understand that when we sing, respiratory particles are emitted. This means that the infection risk is high,” she said.
Covid-19 restrictions in Manila were eased on November 4 to allow small gatherings provided people wear masks and face shields [Sunday Examiner, November 14].
Church activities were also permitted at 50 per cent of the seating capacity of a venue.
‘Caroling will bring back the joy of Christmas, but let not put our defenses down. The virus is still present. Let us be careful’
Father Jun Castro
Vergeire said the government had no “specific” guidelines as to how caroling should be conducted and had left that to local authorities and communities.
“Local governments are encouraged to develop specific guidelines based on their respective local settings,” she added.
She also warned against welcoming carol singers into houses.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
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“Risks may be mitigated if singing is conducted outdoors in small groups at an appropriate distance from observers, and with the vulnerable and elderly not included,” Vergeire said.
The move to restore the Christmas tradition has been welcomed by Catholics.
Father Jun Castro of the Diocese of Legaspi in southern Luzon said singing carols is an important tradition in the Philippines.
“I am sure many will be excited to once again sing their favorite Christmas carols. Caroling is also an opportunity to share with the needy,” Father Castro said.
“Caroling will bring back the joy of Christmas, but let not put our defenses down. The virus is still present. Let us be careful,” he cautioned
Some, however, have voiced concern, saying it may be safer to sing carols online instead.
“Instead of [exposing] carolers to [ther risk of] Covid exposure, maybe it’s better to use the Internet. After all, it is the thought that counts,” Manila parishioner, Martin Castro, said.
