Nazarene Feast Highlights Voters Ed

MANILA, January 8, 2010-In connection with the theme of the 403rd procession of the Black Nazarene, a voter's education program will be given on the eve of the feast of the Black Nazarene at the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta, Manila today.

This year's theme is "Tunay na deboto, matuwid at masunuring katiwala ng Poong Hesus Nazareno."

According to Msgr. Jose Clemente Ignacio, rector of the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, the program has been prepared in relation with the forthcoming national elections on May 2010.

"Ngayon lang po natin ito gagawin dahil sa tema at nalalapit na eleksyon. Nakikita natin na napakahalaga po na maging responsable tayo sa pagpapasya, kaya natin ito gagawin," the rector explained.

The program will be facilitated by Ambassador Henrietta de Villa, Chairperson of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV).

De Villa will discuss on the context of the poll automation such as the details of the voting process and features of the machine, among others.

Youtube sensation, Juana Change, will reportedly help in the conveying the content of the voters education program to the devotees of the Black Nazarene.

Meanwhile, Fr. Alvin Fullon of the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene urged parents not to bring their children to the procession for safety reasons.

He, likewise, proposed to the devotees to bring only basic amount of money for their food and fare and not to bring their cell phones and wallets to avoid "pick-pocket" incidences. (Kate Laceda)