Manila: The Archdiocese of Manila has issued a directive that individuals wishing to conduct Simbang Gabi or dawn Masses outside parish churches must obtain the necessary permits. This announcement was made in light of the upcoming Simbang Gabi, which is set to commence officially on Tuesday, December 16. The guidelines are detailed in Circular No. 2025 - 99 issued by the archdiocese.

According to Philippines News Agency, the circular specifies that if the Aguinaldo/Simbang Gabi Masses are to be held in locations such as chapels, offices, or places other than the designated parish church, shrine, or chaplaincy, express permission from the Archbishop of Manila is mandatory. The archdiocese also noted that anticipated Simbang Gabi services will be permitted on the evening prior, as part of the Catholic Church's "pastoral accommodation."

The circular outlines that evening Aguinaldo/Simbang Gabi Masses can commence as early as 6 p.m., while the dawn or morning Masses are scheduled to start at 5:30 a.m. In another circular, No. 2025 - 108, the archdiocese expressed that the Simbang Gabi/Aguinaldo Masses are intended to offer prayers for the perseverance of Filipinos in their faith, particularly for those encountering life's difficulties.

The archdiocese further encouraged invoking the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary to ensure that the community celebrations lead to a more vibrant, mature, and committed faith in the Lord. Simbang Gabi is a traditional nine-day series of evening and dawn Masses attended by Filipino Catholics in anticipation of Christmas, with evening celebrations running from December 15 to 23, and dawn Masses from December 16 to 24.